Photographer credit: Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff

I last saw the Jersey Boys in the West End and it instantly became one of my favourite jukebox musicals. Already being a fan of the music and even going to see Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons on a tour in 2018, I was ready to be immersed into the magic of this show once again.

The fan favourite musical has been nominated for 21 major awards and was the winner of 4 Tony Awards® including Best Musical. With a book by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, music by Bob Gaudio and Lyrics by Bob Crewe, Jersey Boys the musical tells the interesting and captivating offstage story of this group of ordinary men who came from the streets of New Jersey but ended up in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The musical is set to an iconic soundtrack including hits such as Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like a Man, December 1963 (Oh What a Night) and so so many more.

Dodger Theatricals, Ambassador Theatre Group and Trafalgar Theatre Productions with BB investments, Pelican Group and Latitude Link present this touring production of Jersey Boys which is currently at The Alexandra for the festive period before it continues on with its UK tour. Director Des McAnuff has created a dazzling, show stopping production of this classic. Musical Director Griff Johnson led the brilliant Jersey Boys orchestra who performed the legendary songs with enthusiasm and joy. This touring Creative Team and Production Team are bringing the quality of the West End production to the regional audience. With vibrant costumes and scenery, the show delivers what you would expect of a smash hit musical.

This touring cast gave West End performances as they delivered the iconic choreography (Choreography – Sergio Trujillo) with meticulous care and attention. On the night we saw two Frankie Valli’s, Michael Pickering in Act One and Luke Suri (alternate Frankie) taking over the role in Act Two. It was a real treat to get to see both performers as Frankie Valli as I got to see the different elements they both brought to the role. Both gave me goosebumps as they hit the many beautiful classic Frankie notes with ease and style. Infamous Tommy DeVito was played by Dalton Wood who delivered a sleek, confident performance. To complete the Jersey Boys, we have Nick Massi performed by Lewis Griffiths and Bob Gaudio performed by Blair Gibson. Lewis Griffiths had the audience laughing as he delivered his deadpan comedic one liners and Blair Gibson’s vocals shone in his role as Bob Gaudio. The key to getting this show right is capturing the charisma of the original group and these four had it in bundles. The supporting cast were equally captivating in this fast-paced enjoyable production.

This was my last trip to The Alex for 2021 and what a way to end a year of amazing productions at this wonderful theatre. This production had me grinning throughout and reminded me why I fell in love with the show in the first place. I definitely wasn’t alone in my feelings as seen by the standing ovation of the audience around me as the show received rapturous applause and cheers throughout.

Who Loves You Jersey Boys? I definitely still do.

Jersey Boys runs at the Alexandra Theatre until the 1st of January 2022 (ticket information here).

DT

Theatretastic 5/5:

We say: “A dazzling touring production full of heart, soul and an iconic soundtrack. Who Loves You Jersey Boys? I definitely still do.”