Jersey Boys At The New Theatre, Oxford Review

Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn

The unique and unforgettable West End show, Jersey Boys, is currently on tour and playing at the New Theatre in Oxford. Jersey Boys sensationally showcases the music which defined a generation and became the soundtrack for the lives of so many. The musical tells the true story of four ordinary guys from New Jersey who defied the odds to become the amazing Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

The New Theatre, Oxford is situated right in the centre of the historic city. We found parking to be surprisingly easy, with a reasonably priced car park within a 5 minute walk from the theatre. There is also an excellent Park and Ride service and the theatre is only a ten minute walk from the station. The New Theatre has a spacious auditorium, with comfortable seats and is completely access friendly. All the staff were friendly and helpful and we were very well looked after.

Personally, Jersey Boys was a show full of surprises and ‘I didn’t know that song was by them’ moments! From ‘Beggin’, which has been a recent top 10 hit in the charts, to the exquisite ‘My Eyes Adored You’ the songs kept flowing with an absolute timeless quality, just as they have since the ‘60s and ‘70s. Countless favourites including ‘December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)’, ‘Sherry’ and ‘Working My Way Back to You’ had our feet tapping from the start to finish.

Written by Bob Gaudio and Bob Crewe, the songs form the soundtrack for the band’s own story and all the highs and lows along the way. Against the odds, with deprivation, prison sentences, debt and connections to the mob, the band’s soaring success is a testament to hard work and graft as well as incredible talent. The killer combination of a story worth telling and amazing music ensures the music propels the narrative as well as giving us many moments to simply enjoy and indulge.

Dreams do come true and with such a rich catalogue of amazing hits, Jersey Boys is a winner for a feel good night out. The cast were absolutely outstanding, with jaw-dropping talent. Michael Pickering as Frankie Valli is note perfect and absolutely nails the distinctive vocals. Pickering perfectly pitches the roller coaster of emotions in Valli’s life, with tender harmonies contrasting with upbeat moments full of energy and commitment. It is striking that each band member is able to connect with the audience in their own unique way. Blair Gibson is likeable and charismatic and gives a compelling performance as the clean cut, hard working Bob Gaudio. Lewis Griffiths is convincing and note perfect as Nick Massi as well as having great comic timing. Dalton Wood perfectly plays the part of roguish Tommy DeVito with superb energy, commitment and perfect vocals.

With so many songs firmly fixed in modern culture, Jersey Boys has an absolute timeless quality and will appeal to all generations.

Jersey Boys is a show full of infectious joy and energy – the perfect tonic as the nights draw in! The show sets the gold standard for musicals and is a must-see! Huge congratulations to the cast and crew.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £13 (plus £3.65 transaction fee)

Jersey Boys is at the New Theatre in Oxford from Tuesday 30 November to Saturday 4 December 2021, for more information or to book tickets visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/jersey-boys/new-theatre-oxford/ or call the box office on 0844 871 3020

New Theatre Oxford, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG | 0844 871 3020