New Jersey Nights at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth Review
Reviewed by Linda Curtain
Oh What A Night! – that was certainly the reaction of the audience at the Theatre Royal Plymouth last evening, where they enjoyed a spectacular production of New Jersey Nights. The smash hit show, which celebrates the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, is on stage in Plymouth as part of their world tour.
I was pleased to be able to attend last evening, to review the show, as I had previously seen Jersey Boys in London many years ago and looked forward to seeing this new cabaret-style production.
The Theatre Royal Plymouth is a good venue – with plentiful nearby parking and easy access. As always, we were warmly welcomed by the front of house staff. The cafe in the foyer is ideal for a pre-show drink or snack and the bar has plenty of comfortable seating.
Once we had located our seats, we settled back to enjoy the songs and music which highlighted the career journey of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
The whole show – from the opening number of Oh What A Night to the closing mega-mix – was a feast of upbeat music and this created a superb party atmosphere. Although there was no actual storyline the changing of the scenery from Rosie’s bar in the opening, to the Hollywood style staging in the second half, showed how the group progressed through their career. The songs were interspersed with a small amount of narrative to give some information about this progression.
Michael Conway, William Hazel, Charlie Karsen and Damion Scarcella were amazing in their roles as the members of the Four Seasons. They each had great vocals in different ways and striking stage presence. Having all the right dance moves and strong solo spots, they also harmonised beautifully. The a cappella versions of Silence is Golden and Blue Moon were really impressive. Even the comedy element, where the group started to sing in the wrong key, was well dealt with and added to their likability. Iconic costuming – especially the famous blue jackets – added to the presentation.
The choreography and dance skills of the six backing dancers was very strong and slick. Such supple dancers who worked hard throughout the show to add to the glamour of the evening.
The musical accompaniment was good and an essential part of the show, with the band being visible on a raised platform at the back of the stage.
With numerous well known songs such as Sherry, Rag Doll, Walk Like a Man and, of course, Oh What a Night, the lesser known Fallen Angel – which is a tribute song to the deceased daughters of Frankie Valli – was a highlight of the show with the audience listening in total silence.
Finishing the evening with an amazing New Jersey Nights mega-mix, the whole audience was on their feet to enjoy the songs and music of this wonderful group.
With a short, one week run at Theatre Royal Plymouth, be sure to go along and enjoy this wonderful five star rated production.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £12 to £34 (booking fees may apply).
New Jersey Nights is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 4-8 April 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.
Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222
