Barry Steele and Friends in The Roy Orbison Story Review
Barry Steele & Friends in
The Roy Orbison Story
Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury
28 April 2016
Reviewed by Sarah Bryan
The Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury looked an impressive structure, all lit up brightly and welcoming us into its spacious and open interior. The staff greeted us with friendly faces and they were more than obliging with any questions we had. We were there to see Barry Steele as Roy Orbison and friends in The Roy Orbison Story.
There were plenty of tables and chairs as well as comfortable seats, all clean and tidy and in good condition. The fresh flowers in vases were a nice touch and I was impressed by the facility to pre order your drinks ready for the interval. I was surprised that more people didn’t use this as it’s a great time saver.
We had fantastic central seats for the performance and a great view of the stage, the auditorium was cosy and the temperature was optimum, ensuring a comfortable two and a half hours.
The toilets were pristine, well stocked and clean and tidy.
The show itself was very enjoyable; the lighting was well conducted and the background display showed footage and facts following the career of Roy Orbison. The band were well placed to allow clear visibility and looked immaculate in their attire.
The performance ranged from the mellow smooth notes of Barry Steele to solo parts from members of the band and this juxtaposition worked perfectly. The band picked the audience up, increasing the tempo of the show and really got the crowd clapping and swaying. Then a calm air was introduced when Roy returned, slowing it right down.
The solo voice of Fiona Ford was big, booming and vivacious and coupled with her beaming smile she had an instant likable factor. She created lovely flow and movement throughout the whole show with her dance movements.
The entire band were faultless; their energy and professionalism apparent throughout. But the absolute wow factor goes to Boogie Williams; vocals, keyboard, harmonica and a massive live wire of energy, his liquid fingers worked incredible magic on the keys – it was fabulous to see live footage of this on the big screen to really appreciate the talent. He repeatedly injected the crowd with a boost of life and his performance as Jerry Lee Lewis was amazing! He got the biggest cheers of the evening.
Barry Steele as Roy Orbison was great, his dry humour, southern drawl and engagement with the audience was both funny and easy. His mild manner was endearing and he played the part very well. His unique vocals and presence were at times spine tingling. The audience was particularly slow to get going, only really livening up towards the end with the finale of Pretty Woman but the performers were consistent, high energy, positive and looked like they really enjoyed being up there. A standing ovation was given to the entire band and it was a truly amazing show.
Rating: 4/5
Barry Steele & Friends in The Roy Orbison Story is currently on tour around the UK, for more information visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-orbison-story.
For other shows at the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury visit www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury.
Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 1UG | 0844 871 7607
