Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...A reasonably decent, mostly likable retro entertainment for Holly lovers, with a cast (and ticket prices) comparable to your typical non-Equity, split-week, small-city tour. No more, no less."
Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended
"...Packed with a slew of Holly's hits, including "Everyday," "It's So Easy" and "Rave On" (with Desmin Borges as Valens, raising the temperature with "La Bamba"), "Buddy" features lively direction by Janet Louer and a young ensemble that looks as if it might have been part of Holly's fan club. You may want to add your name."
SouthtownStar - Highly Recommended
"...This isn't a glitzy Broadway entertainment, but with its down-to-earth honesty, charming performances and exuberant rock 'n' roll songbook, "The Buddy Holly Story" is a foot-stompin' joy in its revival at the Mercury Theatre in Chicago."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...Holly's music carries the show. That is, if the musicians are good enough, and they are in this high-intensity staging by Janet Louer (who choreographed the show's 1992 touring edition). Josh Solomon, vulnerable and earnest as Holly, both credibly imitates the singer-songwriter and puts a new spin on some songs..."
Windy City Times - Recommended
"...What also distinguishes the show currently occupying the Mercury Theatre is that all onstage personnel—from Solomon himself, to The Crickets’ Nate Bellon on bull fiddle and Daniel J. Rosenthal on the mighty Ludwig drums, to the tambourine-girl who gawks at Ritchie Valens’ matador pants—play their own instruments. With that much talent and adrenaline heating up the stage, James Turano’s Big Bopper had no trouble pumping up the spectator frenzy on a subzero Saturday night like you might find at a touring concert in Clear Lake, Iowa."
EpochTimes - Recommended
"...This show is a showcase for the talents of Josh Solomon, who it seems has studied Buddy very well and has him down perfectly. Watching this energetic performer at work is a treat. But guess what, there is even more talent in this production. Desmin Borges is a strong Ritchie Valens (who only appears in the second act), James Turano, pulls off a surprisingly solid Big Bopper (among other roles he plays in the first act) and the music of course is spectacular."
Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...While the Mercury’s rendition isn’t proof the show should be kept in circulation, it’s fun enough—in a mindless, oh-golly way—to enjoy. At least the music is. The story still has its flaws."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...With his trademark black rimed glasses, Buddy comes to life in the person of Josh Solomon. This guy is a glove fit to play Holly. This jukebox musical is light on story but long on toe-tapping classic rock tunes."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"...while this jukebox musical is pretty light fare, it's also consistently enjoyable at what it does. It's also a fantastic showcase for the multi-talented Josh Solomon, who channels all of Holly's drive, gawkiness and talent in one thrilling performance."