IT’S been famously said the music died when Buddy Holly tragically left us way before his time, back on February 3, 1959.

But his musical legacy undoubtedly lives on and is brought to the stage in spectacular fashion in ‘Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story’, the cherished smash-hit musical telling the story of his short but incredible life.

The long-running West End and Broadway show is embarking on a UK Tour – with Basildon its first stop.

The iconic feel-good production has already had delighted audience goers of all ages dancing in the aisles at the Towngate Theatre, this week.

And more than 30 years after it first hit the stage, the show is still as fresh and enjoyable as ever.

But you’ll need to be quick to see it, as the show is only at the venue until Saturday.

Buddy tells the enduring story of the bespectacled musical icon’s meteoric rise from his Southern rockabilly beginnings to international stardom and his legendary final performance at the Surf Ballroom before his tragic and untimely death at the age of just 22.

Buddy, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson, AKA ‘The Big Bopper’ were at the peak of their popularity, selling more than ten million records between them in just over 12 months, when they died in a plane crash, a few hours after a concert in Iowa.

The news stunned millions; the world had lost a true icon who in the space of just 18 months, had revolutionised the face of contemporary music.

But his music lives on - and this multi-award winning show captures his legacy beautifully.

With a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians, Buddy presents a terrific two hours of music featuring more than 20 of his hits, including the timeless classics That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Oh Boy, Everyday and Rave On.

There’s also Ritchie Valens’ La Bamba and The Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace, along with some other rip-roaring versions of timeless musical favourites.

You don’t have to be a Buddy Holly fan – or even a Rock ‘n’ Roll lover – to enjoy this award-winning show.

Simply being appreciative of good music will do the trick; if that’s the case, you’re pretty much guaranteed a great time.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to enjoy a smash-hit West End musical, right on your doorstep.

As Buddy gleefully exclaims just before the curtain comes down on the show: ‘Don’t forget to tell your friends to come on down – because Buddy Holly is back in town!’.

To book tickets for Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story which runs at the Towngate Theatre until Saturday (February 25), visit www.towngatetheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01268 205 300