Buddy Holly Archives

Gerald Dolter – whose many positions include director of Lubbock Moonlight Musicals – has performed and taught on an international basis, and never gotten caught up in arts controversies or squabbles.

Oh, don’t take him for granted. He stays aware. But he primarily is interested in music and music history, with few limits on the music valued.

More than two years ago, it was hinted to Dolter that he might want to look into the rights to the hit musical attraction “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story.”

The play had been performed at Lubbock’s Cactus Theater, with Donnie Allison in the title role, more than a decade ago. But it has been years since rights to the play were even available.

The play is about to close an extremely long run at London’s Duchess Theater. Dolter pulled off the ground work, and was able to not only obtain the rights to this hit production – but also hire both of the actors who have been alternating in the role of Buddy Holly on stage in London’s West End, Dean Elliott and Matt Wycliffe.

In addition, he invited the London production’s music director, John Bannister, to spend a summer in Lubbock.

“I’m in it for the history,” said Dolter. “I’m doing this because it is the right thing to do. Something big must be done here in Lubbock to commemmorate Buddy’s memory this year, to mark the 50th anniversary of his passing.

“He is a native son.”

Oh, and Dolter’s not even from Lubbock. He grew up in Dubuque, Iowa.

Bottom line: Lubbock Moonlight Musicals will stage two musicals on weekends at Wells Fargo Amphitheater at Mackenzie Park this summer.

“Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story,” directed by Bill Gelber, will open June 12 and close Aug. 22. “Guys and Dolls,” directed by Dolter, opens July 17 and will close Aug. 21. Dolter will produce both productions.

This is an amazing accomplishment. I smiled upon realizing that this epic stage show, which earned major awards for its openings in both New York and London, is being brought to Lubbock by a non-profit organization rather than the city.

Dolter and his crew have invited Holly’s widow, Maria Elena, to attend, which is the right thing to do. No negotiations were necessary.

London producers already owned the rights. They spoke with Mrs. Holly about the Moonlight Musicals anyway, and, according to Dolter, everyone is on the same page and the contract has been signed.

It would have been nice to have more time to publicize the summer’s production – say, about a year. But nothing could be finalized until it was known that the Duchess production was ending.

And then separate negotiations did have to take place with the agents of both stars.

The handsome, young actors, who are transformed into Holly in the spotlight, stated that they are thrilled about flying to the United States and perform the now-famous Buddy Holly musical in Buddy Holly’s home town.

The city is not financing this production. (Although Lubbock Moonlight Musicals does rent the Wells Fargo Amphitheater from the city each year.) But all of Lubbock can benefit in terms of good will, regardless.

Now is the time to get the word out regionally, nationally and especially overseas.

The Buddy Holly fans wanting to visit Lubbock have been waiting for another good reason to do so – and here is a great one. Yes, the stars from London will be playing Holly each night, but the production also will feature the finest talent from the West Texas area.

No doubt Visit Lubbock will get the word out, using the myriad of contacts already at its disposal.

Local businesses also play a vital role in helping Lubbock Moonlight Musicals and embracing Buddy Holly’s history.

Amphitheater improvements are welcomed. Hurrah to the city for already extending the amphitheater’s handrails to the bottom of the staircase.

Accusations of apathy were aimed at city businesses 30 years ago, concerning the financing of the Holly statue.

That was another time.

Audition times are 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Feb. 28 and March 1 in room M02 (band hall) at the Texas Tech School of Music.

Dolter said, “We are espectailly interested in people who play musical instruments – primarily lead guitar, bass guitar and piano – in addition to singing. This audition will be only musical; we will not do readings at this time.

“Individuals will be contacted concerning callbacks.”

Think also of how the cast and area theater students will benefit. Cast members have the opportunity to work with professionals who can answer their questions. Dolter also will have Elliott, Wycliffe and Bannister give workshops and seminars for theater students.

The British nationals will be supplied with housing.

Automobile must be supplied, and Dolter said, “I’m sure they want to explore Lubbock, go see the Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, N.M., and visit West Texas when not working.” Those with questions, and those just wanting to help, should call 632-0668.

“Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” will be staged on June 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, July 3 and 25; and Aug. 1, 7, 14 and 22. “Guys and Dolls” will be staged on July 17-18, 24, 31; and Aug 8, 15 and 21.