 |
| Credit: Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff |
Mamma Mia
UK Tour
★★★ 1/2
The jukebox musical that dramatises the formation, success and eventual break-up of the 1960s rock'n'roll group The Four Seasons has grown into a "global phenomenon" since coming onto the stage in 2004. Now some 18 years later it is now enjoying a West End revival and an exciting UK & Ireland tour. It is a musical I have long waited to kick off the list!
Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice's well-established book for this musical dives into the journey of the band. It centres a lot around the rollercoaster of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons during their early days in New Jersey. Their growth to stardom however is plagued by an ever-revolving industry and crippling debt brought on by band member Tommy DeVito. It is a really raw account of their story and that makes this musical interesting to watch, especially for fans of the band.
Audiences will love all of their hits which are intertwined in this jukebox, although it's amazing to think that there are some that didn't make it into the show. 'Big Girls Don't Cry', 'My Eyes Adored You' and 'Walk Like A Man' instantly had you tapping your feet. Although notably, it was 'December 1963 (Oh What A Night)' which was the standout, especially in the finale.
Cast in this production do have the responsibility of performing some of the most recognizable vocal ranges within this band. There is no doubt that Michael Pickering's high falsetto notes shine in this show. What was even more brilliant was that he was able to align that with his moving portrayal of Frankie's journey through this show. Lewis Griffiths has a great dry sense of humour that works so well within his vibrating deep voice. Blair Gibson is instantly likeable and light as talented composer Bob Gaudio. Then there's the huge character of Tommy DeVito character who is impressively played by Dalton Wood. Wood really carries his influence on the course of this rollercoaster really well.
The leading man is well supported by a talented ensemble and other various characters who help navigate through this quick-speed story that spans over the 1950s before a reunion in the 1990s.
 |
| Credit: Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff |
 |
| Credit: Birgit + Ralf Brinkhoff |
For me, this production was largely let down by the sound quality. A lot of the sound was largely lost through the void space in the venue where this production was performed at. It was really difficult to hear the articulation of some of the character's narration in the stalls so I can imagine it was even more difficult for audiences further away. As for someone who had never seen the musical as well this meant that it was difficult to follow the story. A lot of my understanding was through the recognisable musical numbers.
I'd like to see Jersey Boys again in a different theatre to see whether I was able to grasp the hype and excitement that many devoted fans of this musical have.
However, musically this show is quite something. The band are excellent and really lifts the entire story. Jersey Boys is a fantastic show if you like a good story but this time around I was just a little bit deflated after this show.
Whilst you're here why don't you read my post 6 Reads To Get Your Fix Of The Theatre.
Add your comment