Oh boy! A night to remember Buddy

HE IS the godfather of rock ‘n’ roll, a pioneer, a legend and sadly a musical genius who left us far too soon. Later this month, South Hill Park will celebrate the music of Buddy Holly and his band, the Cricketeers, with an evening of some of the greatest music ever created.

Sixty three years ago, Rock ’n’ Roll - and the world - lost its brightest star.

The unparalleled catalogue of music that Buddy Holly left behind has entertained, inspired and moved every subsequent generation to laughter, tears and an irrepressible desire to dance.

Although he lived a short life, Buddy left a great musical legacy that lives on today.

Songs include all-time favourites such as; That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Heartbeat, It Doesn’t Matter Anymore, Raining In My Heart, Oh Boy! – and much, much more.

Producer Simon Fielder of Simon Fielder Productions, a former actor in the original touring and West End show said: “I’m so lucky to present shows that feature people and subjects about which I am really passionate.

“Buddy Holly was pivotal in my development as a guitarist and songwriter.

“Buddy’s music has touched the heart of millions around the world and influenced many famous artists such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Brian May and many others. “This will be a show to remember.” Buddy Holly and The Cricketers is a dynamic show featuring authentic arrangements, driving rhythms, energetic performances and skilled musicianship that has audiences literally dancing in the aisles.

It has been delighting audiences for 30 years and has performed in many locations around the world including Europe and a tour of the US. The show stars some of the finest actor-musicians in the UK and was endorsed as Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly act when the show appeared on BBC One’s The One and Only, with Graham Norton.

Whatever the season, whatever the excuse to party, and if you’re wondering What To Do this spring, make your Heartbeat a little faster with the show that has thousands of fans across the world saying, “I can’t believe it’s not Buddy!”.

Buddy Holly and The Cricketers is at South Hill Park on Thursday, March 24. Tickets cost £21, £20 concessions and £19 for members.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to southhillpark.org.uk

A BRITISH Comedy Award winner comes to Reading for a tour warm-up later this month.

Nina Conti performs at South Street on Saturday, March 19, at 8pm.

She will be working through ideas for her new show The Dating Show before she tours it across the UK.

There’s no promise that true love will be found, but a firm guarantee that big laughs will be had in the reign of the woman who Evening Standard critics have crowned the “voicethrowing queen”.

Nina has appeared on BBC’s Live at the Apollo, made a BAFTA-nominated film and has enjoyed sell-out shows across the world – all without moving her lips.

Suitable for an audience aged 14 and up, tickets cost £17.

For more details, or to book, visit: whatsonreading. com or call the box office on: 0118 960 6060.