Jersey Boys at the Edinburgh Playhouse Review
Jersey Boys
Edinburgh Playhouse
9-25 October 2014
Reviewed by Dawn Watson
‘Oh What A Night’ – I took my mum along last night to see Jersey Boys at the Edinburgh Playhouse and wow what a night we both had.
Jersey Boys tells the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons through song but with a slight twist, as it is also told through the eyes and points of view of each of them: Bob Gaudio, Frankie Valli, Tommy DiVito and Nick Massi… bringing to life their fairly turbulent and sometimes sad times in each of their lives. My mum and I both agreed that we feel this adds to the success and enjoyment of the show, it really does reflect their true story, telling the story of four ordinary men who became a truly extraordinary pop group. Stories, tales, memories and an insight into their lives that had never really been told before.
For mum, this was a magnificent trip down ‘memory lane’ allowing her to step back to that era with her 60’s fashion and fun times. For me the show hooked me from the moment Tim Driesen (Frankie) stepped on stage and started singing, I turned to mum and immediately realised who this was! As a girl born in 1968 I had heard of Frankie Valli but could not name even one song… how wrong I was – throughout the whole show I realised just how many songs I do know: ‘Sherry’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Bye Bye Baby’, ‘Walk Like A Man’ and ‘ Working My Way Back to You’ to name only a tiny handful.
The talent of the cast had the audience in the cup of their hands throughout the whole show. Some cast playing several parts to perfection, even moving stage settings around. The show was swift, perfection and a fabulous mix of song, story, fun and laughter…
Particular mention has to go to Tim Driesen who for me was Frankie Valli, his voice was just how I remember hearing his songs on the radio…. he had him to perfection. Their dance moves too were just like the original group. Their attention to detail made the show what it was… a truly stunning story of a group I have a new respect for. Their song book is immense and this performance only showcased a small selection of a magnificent back catalogue of toe tapping, feel good music.
I have been to many musicals and shows but never have I witnessed the true admiration, love and enjoyment shown by the audience last night – a true testament to a truly wonderful cast of hugely talented people.
A magnificent show, one I will remember for a long time.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £21.90 to £63.40 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Jersey Boys is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until 25 October 2014. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3014.
Edinburgh Playhouse, 18–22 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA | 0844 871 3014
