Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It has been a little over 20 years since Jersey Boys first trod the boards on Broadway, and what followed was nothing short of sensational: two West End runs, US tours, UK tours, productions across the globe, and a 2014 film adaptation directed by Clint Eastwood, based on the stage musical. Add to that a haul of Grammy, Tony and Olivier Awards, and it is fair to say that when the show burst onto the scene, it was the hottest ticket in town.

Well, once again, those striking red suits have been donned as the boys from the “Garden State” hit the road for the 20th anniversary tour, which will take in venues across the United Kingdom and Ireland throughout 2026 and 2027.

The show charts the rise and fall of the 1960s rock and roll group The Four Seasons. Told from the perspectives of each of the four members, Frankie Valli (Luke Baker), Tommy DeVito (Carlo Boumouglbay), Nick Massi (Lewis Kennedy) and Bob Gaudio (Toby Miles), we are taken through the band’s chequered history, from their troubled beginnings on the streets and in the clubs of New Jersey to becoming a chart topping global sensation.

Along the way, there are entanglements with the law, the mob and even a future Hollywood A-lister. The group also has to contend with family pressures and plenty of infighting. However, at its heart, this is also a story about determination, loyalty and friendship.

For a show boasting a back catalogue that includes Walk Like a Man, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Bye Bye Baby, you really can’t go far wrong. Musical Director Lauren Rohan brings these songs to life, and it is an absolute joy to see the band performing live on stage alongside the actors throughout the production.

Front and centre is Luke Baker as Frankie Valli, whose range and vocals are top drawer throughout. His falsetto delivery on songs such as Sherry is spine tingling, while his rendition of Can’t Take My Eyes Off You brings the house down. In fact, the applause was so rapturous that the show briefly came to a halt as the audience showed its appreciation for Baker’s performance. He also does a fine job of portraying Valli’s emotional depth, conveying the personal struggles and tragedies that blight his life as he attempts to keep the legacy of the band alive.

Toby Miles is equally impressive as songwriting genius Bob Gaudio. It is an assured, confident and laid back performance, with his rendition of December 1963 (Oh, What a Night) another highlight.

Carlo Boumouglbay makes for an entertaining Tommy DeVito, delivering a charismatic and fiery performance that combines charm with plenty of attitude. Completing the quartet is Lewis Kennedy as Nick Massi, whose comic timing and deadpan delivery throughout very nearly steal the show.

The production has plenty of neat touches. Jess Goldstein’s fabulous costumes look sharp throughout, offset by Klara Zieglerova’s blue collar, urban stage design, complete with chain link fencing and scaffolding. It serves as a constant reminder of the world these young men came from. Another nice touch is the use of 1950s halftone comic book style illustrations, which pop up throughout the performance and add another layer of visual flair.

One of the undoubted highlights is Sergio Trujillo’s slick choreography, which brings to life The Four Seasons’ polished and smooth performances. Throughout numerous musical numbers, all four leads move together in impressive unison. It really is a visual treat. A particular highlight for me was the inclusion of Beggin’, with the choreography absolutely superb. I also just really like the song!

The production is not without its flaws. Towards the final act, the story feels a little rushed, with too little time given to process the emotional impact of everything Valli has been through and the sheer amount of personal trauma he has experienced. I also wish there had been more exploration of the relationship between Bob Gaudio and music producer and songwriter Bob Crewe (Michael Levi), who was so important to the band’s success. Their relationship feels somewhat underdeveloped.

Finally, some of the dialogue does get a little fruity at times and comes as something of a surprise, particularly for a jukebox musical. It certainly wasn’t a problem for me or my 70 something Mum, who accompanied me, but it may not be to everyone’s taste.

With its superb cast, precision choreography, sharp and occasionally colourful script, and a songbook packed with hit after hit, Jersey Boys once again proves to be a highly entertaining night out. It is a production that knows exactly what its audience has come to see and delivers it with plenty of energy, style and, most importantly, some fantastic music.

Jersey Boys  at the Palace Theatre until the 19th September tickets are available here.