Review: Jersey Boys - Prince Edward Theatre, London

JERSEY BOYS

Wednesday 25th January 2012 - 7.30pm: Jersey Boys tells the story of the rise to fame of one of the most successful bands in history. Four boys from New Jersey, trying to make it big, and eventually end up in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This is the riveting story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, and this show has it all!

The set on this show looks like a logistical nightmare, but it is brought to us effortlessly. A huge amount of automation is used to transport various drum kits all over the stage, mics from the substage, video screens flying in. This is all used to very great effect, with fast tight scene changes adding to the flow of the story.

The music in this production is fantastic, with all the hits you would expect, including Walk Like A Man, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye), Big Girls Don't Cry, Sherry, Oh what A Night and many more.
The band are sounding good, great arrangements, lots of brass in places, and a sound mix which is top notch, not too overpowering which means vocals can be heard at all times.

Jon Lee as Frankie Valli
Photo courtesy of Brinkhoff/Mogenburg

Speaking of vocals, Frankie Valli (Jon Lee) was rather exceptional, I was absolutely gobsmacked on occasions with some of the range and quality on show here, a stunning performance of Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You literally sent a tingle down my spine - outstanding.
Matthew Wycliffe as Bob Gaudio also stood out on the night, again a very nice pitch and tone to a great singing voice. Top this off with a simply superb cast joining in, and this makes for a perfect blend in your ears.

My only criticism is the lack of audience! The stalls only half full, the two circle levels doing better.
Now don't get me wrong, this show has won awards worldwide, including Olivier Award for Best New Musical, and it is clear to see why... This show is brilliant, pure and simple.

Go grab a seat, and you too will be thinking Oh What A Night as you come out at the end of the show with a huge grin on your face.

Jersey Boys
Prince Edward Theatre
Currently booking until 21 October 2012
https://tickets.delfont-mackintosh.com/index.asp?ShoID=178