But what some may see as the next best thing – the tribute show – is proving popular with local audiences at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre.

For some, it’s the chance to take a trip down memory lane and reconnect with the music of their youth.

For others, it’s the opportunity to experience what may be the closest thing to the real deal – especially if the real deal is long gone.

Centre coordinator Vicki Sienczuk said tribute shows are indeed popular in Cessnock as well as many other venues around the country.

Tributes to Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and ABBA have appeared at the CPAC numerous times.

John Waters and Stewart D’Arrietta have brought their critically-acclaimed tribute to John Lennon (Glass Onion) to the CPAC four times since 2012.

The late Jon English’s Rock Show – featuring English’s own hits and covers of many other rock ‘n’ roll classics – was also a return visitor.

“The chance to have a night of nostalgic moments – for example when people came to the Rock Show, remembering where you were, who you were with and even the clothes you wore – is very attractive,” Dr Sienczuk said.

“I also think that the music itself, in a lot of instances, has stood the test of time and this is what attracts younger people to see the tribute groups.”

The centre’s 2017 season opened with Boys in the Band (covering the best boy bands from the ‘50s to the ‘90s). It has also hosted shows paying homage to Roy Orbison and Christine McVie this year.

Tributes to the Bee Gees (May 19), Beach Boys (May 25) and Michael Jackson (August 14) are still to come this year, as is a re-creation of the legendary Live Aid ‘85 concert (which will raise money for Food War Inc and Foodbank NSW) on July 7.

Visit cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au for the full program.