If nothing else, Alan Janes’s 1989 tribute musical proves that Buddy Holly–who died in a plane crash almost 50 years ago–has staying power. Though the book is criminally slim and obvious, 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, especially the delicate “Everyday.” The big second-act production numbers bury Solomon’s interpretation, but Daniel J. Rosenthal’s drumming, James Turano as the Big Bopper, and Desmin Borges as Ritchie Valens make up for the loss. –Laura Molzahn a Through 3/11: Wed-Thu 7:30 PM, Fri 8 PM, Sat 5 and 8:30 PM, Sun 3 PM, Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, 773-325-1700, $20-$38.50.
