The sound of rock makes a roar in this long-running show paying homage to its many decades of History. Guillermo Nazara discusses the most interesting facts with its director and lead performer, to learn more about a piece starring the anthems and icons that have defined more than a lifetime.
It’s been over 30 years since this show reached the stage for the first time. How does it feel to still be doing it after so long?
Privileged. A show that lasts this long has got to be pretty special to be still in the water.
What has changed throughout these three decades of the show’s life?
Many of the cast and crew. The music has gradually crept into the 1980s whereas before, it finished in the 1970s.
How did it all start? How the idea for this montage come to fruition?
That’ll Be The Day came directly from a 3/4 piece cabaret show called Fizzical – myself and 2/3 ladies which began in 1982. It was a mini version of the format that is That’ll Be The Day – comedy impressions and dance routines.
The show is an homage to the all the great rock superstars from the 50s up to the 80s. As a performer, what are the challenges that you find in paying tribute to such big icons?
To impersonate rock ‘n’ roll stars, obviously the first thing is to try and sound like the person that you are impersonating and, if you get that bit right, the next challenge is to portray the band/singer in a recognisable way for the audience. We go to great lengths, both vocally and instrumentally, to get tributes to other bands absolutely spot on.
The piece is all about nostalgia, but is it important to keep it up-to-date in some way?
We make reference to the fact that we have moved on from the 1950s and if anything is current, we try to incorporate this into the show. At the moment, I’m checking the concrete before we go on!
What other challenges do you find in this show both as a director and/or performer?
Trying to keep up the energy levels and morale and enthusiasm which are vital to a successful performance; travelling becomes more arduous as time goes on, but we chose the life. Each performance has to hit the target or we would be dead in the water.
Why come see That’ll Be The Day?
Because That’ll Be The Day is unique in its presentation and it changes content every year. Keeping the performances at a high-quality level, the mix of good music harmonies and comic pieces is attractive to our fans and anybody that likes music from the 1950s through to the 1980s. We never disappoint; we can’t afford to.
That’ll Be The Day is currently on tour until 28 October, and will later continue for an additional Christmas and Spring tours. Tickets are available on the following link.
2 responses to “Trevor Payne talks tribute show ‘That’ll Be The Day”: “Each performance has to hit the target or we would be dead in the water””
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We love this band, they make an evening at Buxton so enjoyable.
I wondered if they would consider including amongst their so talented musicians tracks from Duane Eddy?
I have been a fan of Duane for 65 years. Many thanks. Eric