A NORTH-EAST actor will tread the boards in tribute to one of rock n roll’s most iconic performers this week.

With a faux Texas twang and a pair of heavy rimmed glasses, Newcastle-born Glen Joseph is transformed into the image of 1950s legend Buddy Holly, whose short life is being celebrated in a renowned musical returning to Darlington this week.

Mr Joseph takes centre stage as Buddy, who enjoyed a string of hits before he died alongside performers Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper in a plane crash in 1959.

The actor will be reprising his role after a number of previous appearances as Buddy.

He made his West End debut in The Buddy Holly Story, has played the star in two UK tours, in Germany and at a concert held to mark the 50th anniversary of his death.

The multi-award winning show, which is now in its 25th year, will entertain crowds at the Darlington Civic Theatre until Saturday March 1.

Audiences can enjoy two hours of rock n roll classics including Buddy Holly hits That’ll Be the Day, Rave On and Oh Boy as well as the Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace and Ritchie Valens’ La Bamba.

Tickets are now on sale and range from £17.50 to £26. To book, call 01325-486555.