Rock ‘n’ Roll Heaven (Tour – Manchester)

Rock ‘n’ Roll Heaven is a tribute show. A chance to see Eddie Cochran, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson and Buddy Holly performing one after the other.

Seasoned producer Bill Kenwright who bought us the successful Buddy returns to that era with what is essentially a greatest hits compilation. Dispensing with dialogue, storylines and stage effects this is pure performance.

The young AJ Dean is not an entirely convincing Elvis but neither is he a Las Vegas impersonator. Faced with the formidable task of portraying the King he responds with some impressive pelvic thrusts during “Hound Dog.”

Buddy Holly is a return to the role by Reuven Gershon who also had the title role in the musical of the same name. He certainly looks the part and gets the audience clapping along with “Think it Over.” The backing band, led by acoustic guitarist Jake Allen, holds the show together and performs with genuine enthusiasm.

The highlight is Damien Edwards as Del Shannon and Roy Orbison. His falsetto is perfect for fot this singer. He also does a bit more talking to the audience, which is refreshing after the quick changeover of acts and the yodelling “From Me To You” is hilarious.

This show is not for everyone. If you’re not familiar with the music then there is little else to hook in to. And fans of these rock and roll idols might not want to watch impersonators when they can listen to the real thing at home.

But it is a good show for those who want to revisit some classics and an chance to watch Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and Ricky Nelson perform “Summertime Blues” together.

– Joanna Ing