Hull New Theatre – until 3rd October 2026
Reviewed by Dawn Bennett
5*****
Jersey Boys is a musical about the lives and careers of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Based on the book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe.
Jersey Boys is a jukebox musical at its best. The group’s own songs are woven seamlessly into the story as it charts their rise to stardom. Alongside their success, the show explores some of the problems they faced, from prison sentences and dealings with the mob to the group members’ turbulent love lives.
The group didn’t have overnight success; they worked hard for it. They had knockbacks from radio and record producers who wanted a band with hits which they couldn’t get without a contract or promotion. Spending so much time touring across the country kept them away from their families and placed considerable strain on those relationships. We follow their rise to fame, witnessing both its rewards and the challenges it brought.
All the cast were outstanding. Their harmonies were superb. Luke Baker played a brilliant Frankie Valli, singing Vallis trademark falsetto with such skill. Carlo Boumouglbay (Tommy DeVito), Lewis Kennedy (Nick Massi) and Toby Miles (Bob Gaudio) were all superb singers as well. All their harmonies were a joy to listen to. The supporting cast handled numerous roles with impressive versatility, forming one of the best ensembles I have seen perform.
The set was simple, but the scene changes were anything but. Slick, swift and flawless, they transformed the stage from a house to a club and into a live performance space, all with minimal props.
Under musical director Lauren Ronan the band were excellent.
I recognised many of the songs in the show, but I had not realised how many had also been recorded by other artists. Their widespread appeal is a testament to the enduring popularity of The Four Seasons’ music.
A fabulous evening showcasing exceptional talent—and a show that is well worth seeing!