Jersey Boys

Without a doubt, the Jersey Boys show that we saw today was the very best musical theater I have ever seen.  And I have seen dozens and dozens of productions at various places over forty plus years.  This show reminded me of all the reasons I fell in love with musical theater to begin with.

It was clear from the audience reaction that I am not the only one who had such a positive reaction.  The crowd literally roared with approval.

For me, there are a variety of reasons why I would call it the very best.  Of course, I would have more appreciation for the music since much of it came from my era,  songs of the fifties and sixties.  It was delightful to actually know the words to many of the songs.  But the quality of the music could move one of any generation.  I have no doubt that it has and still does.

The production itself was done with a variety of multi-media elements.   The Jersey Boys were often on stage singing, and there was a Jersey Boys orchestra providing the music. Various other musical instruments and groups floated in and out of the stage setting.  A portion of the stage would become a large screen and video clips from the actual historical Four Seasons would appear.   The casting was so magnificent that when the historical clips appeared on screen,  I was absolutely convinced that it was a video of the current actors on stage!   Even the details of the height of the Four Seasons singers was considered in the casting.  The singer/actor who played the part of Frankie Valli sounded so much like Valli, that I could not believe my ears.  And what a unique sound that was!

Since the story was based on the true account of the Jersey Boys lives and musical careers,  it included much about their failed relationships, their loyalty, their flawed characters.  It was filled with tragedy and triumph, humor and pathos. It was fast-paced, highly entertaining, full of song and dance. I was never bored, even for a moment.

Another exceptional part of the experience was the Landmark Theater itself, a magnificent old grand movie palace.   It was built in 1928, functioning even during the silent film era.  Apparently, after many stages of renovation there was a re-opening event in 2011.

What a delight!  I am beyond words to describe how much I loved this show.
Thanks to the daughter who insisted I go!