The China Mail - Jersey Boys Anniversary Tour Opens in Birmingham With Gritty Account of Crime and Fame

The 20th-anniversary tour of Jersey Boys has opened at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre, presenting a production that chronicles the turbulent rise of the Four Seasons from petty criminals in New Jersey to international rock icons. The show runs until Saturday, November 7.

Built on a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice described as "no-holes barred," the narrative allows director Des McAnuff to explore the band’s complex history without softening its edges. The story follows Tommy DeVito, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi, and Frankie Valli, depicting a journey littered with mafia connections, money laundering, alcoholism, gambling, and broken relationships, alongside an "untimely death or two." The group originally took their name from a lounge where they performed, a simple moniker that contrasts with the complexity of their lives.

The cast delivers strong performances in this substantial production. Carlo Boumouglbay portrays Tommy DeVito as a hot-headed wheeler-dealer, while Toby Miles captures the calm brilliance of songwriter Bob Gaudio. Lewis Kennedy plays Nick Massi with smooth charisma and sardonic wit. Luke Baker takes on the role of Frankie Valli, delivering a falsetto described as effortless rather than an impersonation. His performance traces Valli’s physical transformation from a naive 16-year-old pulled into crime to an aging superstar.

The chemistry among the four leads is noted as electric, creating a convincing portrayal of the band. The production features a well-drilled cast, a spot-on orchestra, and a tight crew. Staging by Klara Zieglerova is described as effective and flexible, supported by impressive lighting design from Howell Binkley. Choreography by Sergio Trujillo matches the slickness of the musical numbers.

The music, composed by Bob Gaudio with lyrics by Bob Crewe, drives the emotional arc of the show. The production is unusually long by modern musical standards but maintains momentum through its detailed storytelling. A key moment occurs in the final scene, set in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where the audience hears "Rag Doll." This is followed by a mini-concert walkdown that serves as the conclusion to the evening.

The show aims to take the audience through a full range of emotions, echoing the sentiment of the Four Seasons' hit "Oh What A Night." Details regarding ticket times and further information are available for those wishing to attend the run at the Alexandra Theatre.

M.Zhou--ThChM