Zachary Stevenson figures hes performed Peggy Sue more times than the songs creator.
I made a joke about it once, but then I stopped to think, says Stevenson, on the phone from Red Deer, Alberta, where hes playing a few Buddy Holly tribute shows. And its probably true.
Buddy Holly burned brightly for a short period of time four years. It was long enough for the Lubbock, Texas born-and-raised singer/songwriter to make three records and leave a lasting impact on pop culture. But Stevenson has logged countless performances as Holly since he began portraying the bespectacled rocker in the musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story six years ago.
Hes almost more Buddy than Buddy.
You spend enough time in his shoes, and if you dont feel a connection then somethings a bit off, says Stevenson. Ive spent so much time thinking about how he lived, and the meaning behind some of these songs. Hes had such an impact, even though hes from a smaller town, and he was just this kid who really had a love for music, who wrote his own songs.
Stevensons portrayal of the 50s icon has become a fixture in Vancouvers theatre scene. The 2010 run at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage sold out, and a provincial tour the following year was also successful.
This summer, the actor/musician returns to the role in whats been dubbed the worlds most successful musical it premiered in Londons West End in 1989 and ran for 13 years; an estimated 20 million people have seen it at the Stanley, from July 16 Aug 26.
Playing a rock n roll star with such a limited career has given Stevenson a unique perspective on Holly the man and artist.
Its been a very interesting musical education, says Stevenson.
Ive played in a few different musical combinations, and performed lots of cover songs, which is a good way to learn. But its different when youre not just trying to play the music but also capture the intention behind it, and the energy.
Stevenson says the key is to think of the music as something happening right in that moment, without the six decades worth of associations that have grown up around Peggy Sue, Thatll Be the Day, Rave On and other Holly hits.
I have to think about each song as a brand new creation, says Stevenson. [Holly] is so excited to play this music, which is cutting edge stuff. Peggy Sue, which sounds so tame to us now, back then was the equivalent of punk rock, ass-kicking music.
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story runs July 12 to August 26 at Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. There is a VocalEye live audio description on Sunday, August 5 at 2pm. Tickets $29 to $80. Go to ArtsClub.com or call 604-687-1644 for details.
