Walk Right Back Review

Reviewed by Amelia Bascombe

Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review.

Following incredible sell out tours, the Everly Brothers story is being told once again by Walk Right Back. Hailed as the most successful duo of all time, this production tells the story of how they started out, and where some of their classic hits originated. Featuring songs like Bye Bye Love, All I Have To Do Is Dream and Cathy’s Clown, the show is concert like, and immerses the audience fully into the rock and roll era. Told by the actors playing the brothers themselves, the piece uniquely flits between stunning vocals and heart wrenching storytelling. We watch as the brothers tackle fame, fights and flying to the top of the charts, but at what cost? The show delves into the brother’s decade long feud and the emotional reunion that came after. 

The production proved to be an absolute hit with the audience, who admittedly were not my specific demographic. However, this shows the strength of the piece, as I could engross myself into the eras and story without knowing much about the brothers themselves. The music was outstanding and performed to perfection by the 2 lead vocalists and the band.

The cast was led by Luke Wilson as Phil Everly and James Hudson as Don Everly. Wilson has a magical voice and has some lovely comedic moments as ‘Phil’. He ensures that the audience feels involved and engaged in the show, which connects us to not just to the music, but to the story and family bond as well. Hudson is so charming as ‘Don’ and his voice is absolutely golden. He blends so well with Wilson, but completely holds his own and excels in his solos. Together they are formidable, and their stage presence as both themselves, and the brothers, is great.

The rest of the band consists of Tom Wright, Curtis Lavender, Peter Ravenhill and Chris Webb. Wright doubles up as lead guitarist and also portrays Buddy Holly, which is an absolute treat. He embodies Holly so well, and his skills with the guitar were a dream to watch. Seeing so many musicals with the orchestras underneath the stage, it feels so nice to be able to watch and fully appreciate musicians for how good they actually are. Lavender also doubles up, portraying Roy Orbison whilst also playing guitar and the keyboard. Again, a lovely voice and presence on stage to compliment the Everly Brother’s. As a whole, the company really excels and pulls the piece together brilliantly. You can tell they are having fun and bounce off each other well.

It's an interesting concept, as the show follows a clear story and pattern, but keeps the audience grounded by having the actors be themselves out of song. I think this allows the audience to really understand the narrative and get to know the brothers for who they were, not just their music. Due to the nature of the show, it doesn’t lend itself to massive amounts of set or staging. I think some more could’ve been done to change the stage/environment between eras of music and the different stages of the brother’s relationship. The screen at the back of the stage was used to enhance authenticity and helped us to identify where we were (literally) in the story. In addition, the reunion towards the end was so special and such a heartfelt moment; the piece was loaded with highs and lows and took the audience right on that journey. If you grew up with this music, or just love the duo in general, this is definitely the show for you! A cross between a rock concert, a biography and the Jersey Boys, that simply shouldn’t be missed. Walk Right Back is touring the UK until November of next year!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

You can find all future tour dates, venues and other information at https://www.walkrightback.com/