First Night Review: Jersey Boys @ The Saenger Theatre

The cast of Jersey Boys (photo: Jeremy Daniel)

​Jersey Boys @ The Saenger Theatre
Review by Lauren Malara

Hey-la, hey-la, Jersey Boys is back! As part of the 20th anniversary tour, this Tony Award-winning musical has returned to the Saenger Theatre. The show is fast, fun, and filled with hit songs. It was no surprise when audience members got up to dance at the end of Act II. Oh, what an opening night, late September, down in New Orleans...

This heartfelt story follows a group of boys from Jersey as they make their way to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. A code of brotherhood guides the boys as they navigate mobsters and music executives. With spirited and focused performances, you won’t take your eyes off the stage. The cast serenades the audience into a trance, inviting them to step into the past via their incredible legacy of hit songs.

You've heard their hits no matter your age: you might just not realize who recorded these classics: Let's Hang On (To What We Got), Can't Take My Eyes Off You, and Working My Way Back to You are just some of the instantly-evocative singalong numbers.

Oram (Frankie Valli)’s vocal mastery is nuanced, taking the audience on a journey as he learns to walk like a man. In addition to his soothing voice, McCredie (Nick Massi) offers some strong comedic moments.

​Sperduto (Tommy DeVito) plays the closest thing the show has to a villain, but his warm performance can’t give you anything but love. Schoenhofer (Bob Gaudio) is so affable and grounded; as he fights for Valli, it’s hard to remember that big girls don’t cry.

Even if you’ve seen it, make your way back. The songs and story have a lasting effect. You’ll leave the theatre singing and begging to stay.

Jersey Boys plays at The Saenger Theatre through Sept 27th, with matinee and evening shows this weekend. Click here for show and ticketing information
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