Empire Theatre, Liverpool – until Saturday 5th February 2022
Reviewed by Carla Whittaker
5*****
The internationally acclaimed stage sensation is currently playing to sell-out crowds at Liverpool Empire Theatre until Saturday 5th February 2022. I was exceptionally lucky to be able to get a ticket to see this smash hit musical with my friend as I had been wanting to see it for some time, and it was showing at the ever so popular Liverpool Empire Theatre, a theatre which is renowned for its intimate seating, traditional décor, and as always exceptional staff and hospitality.
Jersey Boys tells the true story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, from their beginnings as four guys from New Jersey to their rise to fame and distinctive style. Whilst this may appear as a classic musical rag to riches story, the show gives an excellent portrayal of the trials and tribulations behind one of the biggest chart toppers in history from run-ins with the mob, debt, stints in prison, disruption, divorce, and the loss of Valli’s daughter. Entwined within the musical are their classic hits such as Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like A Man”, “Bye Bye Baby”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” and “Working My Way Back To You” accompanied by fantastic strong vocals. I think the whole audience was singing and toe tapping along to these instantly recognisable songs from beginning to end.
For me, a highlight of the show for me was Luke Suri who played the part of Franki Valli. His vocals couldn’t be more perfect for this role and carries it with ease which is compelling and impressive. Luke thoroughly deserved the standing ovation midway through the act!
The backdrop of the production was a simple, yet effective single scaffold style set with 1960s with background screens seamlessly displaying digital pop art graphics showing to highlight a different scene or line and footage of the actual band at times The dancing was very well choreographed and was executed by the ensemble perfectly.
Jersey Boys is an excellent story full of twists and turns accompanied by fantastic music, I would highly recommend this show to anyone even if you have no idea who Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons you are will know their story by the end of Jersey Boys! This is a show not to miss. Jersey Boys is playing at the Liverpool Empire Theatre until 5th February 2022.