Review of Everly Brothers Story Walk Right Back at New Wimbledon Theatre

Walk Right Back showcases the trademark harmonies and the distinctive rock and roll/country sound that made the Everly Brothers duo one of the most memorable acts of the 50s and 60s.

I took my father to the performance. He is 78 and remembers the era with great fondness. The show was intended to take him on a nostalgic journey, but as I was to find out, the joyful energy of the music transcends generations, and I found myself thoroughly immersed in the spirit of the show, singing along to such classic tracks as Bye Bye Love and All I Have to Do Is Dream, as well repertoire of tunes that defined the period from other notable performers of the day, including Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly.

The show follows the story of the brother’s rise to fame through song, and although there is not a great deal of set change, the musical quality is somehow enough to carry the narrative as the lead performers take the audience on a chronological musical journey through the duo’s career.

The cast is led by Luke Wilson as Phil Everly and James Hudson as Don Everly. Wilson has a fantastic voice and provides some great comedic moments as 'Phil' as we are taken on a journey through their career highs and lows, with the emphasis on the music rather than the more negative aspects, such as when the brothers were not in communication. The musical talent of the performers is very high, with some great guitar riffs from the two main actors and a double base solo making stand-out moments.

The audience is encouraged to participate throughout the show, and towards the end, everyone is invited to stand up and dance, at this point, the genuine love of the music is truly evident, and there is a palpable charge of enjoyment from the crowd, even my father, who is not known for his dancing, was fully immersed and was happily bobbing around.

For anyone who is a fan of music from the 50s and 60s, I would highly recommend the show, its easy charm and charismatic performers do not disappoint, making Walk Right Back perfect for a nostalgic night out.

Tickets are available from the theatre websites with full details on https://walkrightback.com/tickets/

Written by Claire Bloom

Photography courtesy of Everly Brothers musical