Jersey Boys is a true success story, in two ways. It started at Southern California’s La Jolla Playhouse in 2004, moved to Broadway, and earned four Tony Awards in 2006. It has since gone on to form several other companies, including ones based in Chicago, Melbourne, and London. The Las Vegas company is installed at the gorgeous Palazzo Resort. I have seen four incarnations of the show and, for me, the Las Vegas company is the best all around. This comes partly from its having its own special theater, and partly from its absolutely incredible cast.
The show is also a success story in that it traces the history of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from their simple beginnings in New Jersey, to becoming one of the top pop groups of the 1960’s, to their inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This joyous musical celebrates their lives and music. I call it the “Rocky” of Broadway musicals. As an audience member you get caught up in the music and the stories, and by the end of the evening the show has claimed you and branded you as a fan. Both the music and the show are infectious, thanks to the terrific work of Des McAnuff, the director, and the wonderful book by writers Rick Elice and Marshal Brickman.
You might ask why all the praise for a musical about a 60's rock group. Then you realize the group survived the Beatles, the British invasion, and the rise of hard rock. The songs are part of our American history. “Walk Like A Man” taught guys that it was OK to be a man who was upright, faithful, strong, and forceful. “My Eyes Adore You” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” taught us that there is depth and real caring in relationships, and that they are worth having and fighting for. “Sherry” showed us how to revel in a name. Dare I say the music makes you proud to be American, in the same way that Elvis captured something uniquely American. It's a rags to riches story full of drama, heartbreak, and joy.
Article comments
1 - Delgado
You spelled Deven May and Jeff Leibow's names wrong.
2 - greyjoe
What are the best seats in the Palazzo Theater? Front row or a few rows back?
thanks