Jersey Boys at the New Theatre Oxford Review
Jersey Boys
New Theatre, Oxford
12-23 May 2015
Reviewed by Lucy Ibbotson
We couldn’t wait to review Jersey Boys at the New Theatre in Oxford. We love going to this theatre as the atmosphere is great and the productions are usually stunning. We weren’t disappointed on this occasion either.
The show started with a blast from the present day… to highlight the success of this band over the decades. And then the story began, a tale of a struggling group with no real identity and their desire for fame. After years of performances in front of dozens of people, they finally discover Frankie Valli (played brilliantly by Tim Driesen) and things really start to take off, along with the introduction of Bob Gaudio (played by Sam Ferriday). Not forgetting the other members of the group who were expertly portrayed by Lewis Griffiths (Nick Massi) and Stephen Webb (Tommy DeVito), together they hit the big time with hits ‘Sherry’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ and ‘Walk Like a Man’. These tracks had the audience tapping their feet and clapping in time to the music, thoroughly enjoying this step back in time.
After the interval, we were further entertained with more and more hits, but the story took a turn and real life started to effect the band. With broken relationships, money problems and the stress of ‘the road’ taking its toll on all of them. But the underlying story of this band is that friendship and loyalty always come out on top and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons was born. I won’t give away any of the story but like in all good fairy tales, it was a happy ending.
The sets and lighting effects were simple but effective and the musicians were outstanding, really transporting the audience back to the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. I mustn’t forget the flawless costumes and set changes.
I would highly recommend this musical to anyone as its such good fun. And based on this we will be booking tickets to see the show in Las Vegas.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £17.90 to £52.40 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Jersey Boys is at the New Theatre in Oxford until 23 May 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3020.
New Theatre Oxford, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG | 0844 871 3020
