Concert Review
Frankie Avalon
Friday February 14, 2025
Bear’s Den Showroom
Seneca Niagara Casino
Niagara Falls, NY
Review/Photos: Joseph Suto
Some people don’t appreciate nostalgia. Some may not until it’s too late to see an artist then you completely lose the chance. Lucky for the fans of Frankie Avalon, he is still out performing even at the age of 84. The former teen idol can still put on a laudable show as he took the crowd back in time during his 80-minute set. From 1958-62 Avalon had 31 singles make the Billboard chart. He also had two number ones in “Venus” and “Why”.
Avalon took to the stage at the Bear’s Den Friday night for his first of two shows at the cozy venue as he played successive nights. This was my first time seeing Avalon and it was everything I had imagined it would be and more. His band was huge with his son Frank on drums, a six piece brass section and keyboardist and music director
His band features Edan Everly who is the son of Don Every and nephew of Phil Everly who were known as the Everly Brothers. It was nice to see them do a 3 song set of the Everly classics featuring “Bye Bye Love”, “All I Have To Do Is Dream” and “Wake Up Little Susie”.
What an amazing career Avalon has had not only as a singer but as an actor as well. He is known for his Beach Party movies as well as his appearance in Grease. He has made so many friends over his career and is one of the most respected men in the entertainment industry. He recalled playing the Buffalo area over the years as it was one of the cities that embraced him early on his career. He spoke about playing the Town Casino, The Glen Casino as well as playing the Seneca Niagara Casino many times over the years.
There are not many artists of Avalon’s ilk left these days. It is a treat to see an artist still put on solid performances so late in the game. Some hang around much too long and it tarnishes their legacy. Avalon is still going strong which is good to see as he does it for the love of performing. He could have retired many moons ago. Each show he puts on is a gift, a joy. It was good to hear the stories he told as they painted the picture of simpler times. My how things have changed over the years. Do not pass by an opportunity to see a true legend.
Set List
Bobby Sox to Stockings
Why
Yakety Yak / Charlie Brown / Witch Doctor
Beach Blanket Bingo
California Sun
Beauty School Dropout
DeDe Dinah / Gingerbread
Bye Bye Love
All I Have to Do Is Dream
Wake Up, Little Susie
When the Good Guys Used to Win
Venus
Rock and Roll Heaven / Hello Mary Lou / Jailhouse Rock / Blue Suede Shoes / Mack the Knife / Rock Around the Clock / Rock and Roll Heaven (Reprise)
Old Time Rock and Roll
We’ll Meet Again / Mickey Mouse Club
