Rock n Roll Man-Salisbury Playhouse.

At the age of 43 DJ Alan Freed died of cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcoholism. However, he left behind an incredible legacy. You might not recognise the name Alan Freed but I guarantee you recognise the music genre he popularised called “Rock and Roll”. Bringing original music to the airwaves and then to concerts. Freed was the first DJ to integrate artists and audiences.

However, due to his determination and refusal to follow the “racist” rules set out by the establishment, it made him a target of the authorities and he stood trial for allegations of “payola” in a scandal that eventually cost him his career. He deserved admiration and support not condemnation.

Constantine Maroulis plays the role of the talented and driven DJ Alan Freed. Alongside Jairus McClanahan as a highly strung and talented Little Richard and Joe Bence as Buddy Holly to name but a few of the singers featured in the musical.

Rock and Roll Man doesn’t hold its punches and brings together every aspect of his life. His working life and the rise to popularity, his “failed” marriages, and his darker time when he stands trial. Overall, Freed had principles that are highly commendable and deserve to be celebrated.

Audiences are treated to a range of music and singers from the Freed era, legends like Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Drifters and more. I guarantee once the Musical is in full swing you will recognise many of the songs performed.

Cherece Richards gives an incredibly powerful and moving performance in the role of LaVern Baker. One of those hair on the back of the neck raising moments.

Freed was highly respected by his young audiences and made a career out of championing “Black Music” and refused to play cover versions on his radio station show by the likes of Pat Boone, who apparently had a better appeal to white music fans!

There are not many jukebox musicals I would happily watch again. Rock n Roll Man is one of them. The majority of the auditorium were on their feet at the end to celebrate the exceptionally entertaining musical.