Jersey Boys is now playing–and almost sold out–at Warsaw Federal Incline Theater. This Cincinnati Landmark Production will run through June 23rd.
Jersey Boys is a musical biography of the Four Seasons—the rise, the tough times and personal clashes, and the ultimate triumph of a group of friends whose music became symbolic of a generation. The book is by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice.
The Story
Jersey Boys features far more than just popular numbers from the group’s songbook. This production focuses on the relationship between the members with a special focus on the groups’ frontman, Frankie Valli (Josh Galloway). We see the group start as “The Variety Trio” with Tommy DeVito (Robert Breslin IV), his brother Nick DeVito (Zachary Petrie) and friend Nick Massi (Royce Louden), eventually discovering teenager Frankie Castelluccio (soon to be Valli). DeVito takes Valli under his wing teaching him “everything he knows”.
We follow the group through the early years trying to find their sound, and their name. It is through this period that the group meets Bob Gaudio (Elliot Handkins) and the Four Seasons are born.
Performances
Josh Galloway’s performance as Frankie Valli captivates the audience with not only his impeccable vocals but the vulnerability he brings to the character. Galloway has the “voice like an angel” to bring Valli to life. His rendition of Fallen Angel is something that can’t be missed.
Each member of the Four Seasons has stand out moments throughout the production. Breslin as Tommy DeVito starts the show off with powerful vocals. He brings to life the jersey cliché of DeVito while moving the story forward at the perfect pace. Royce Louden as Nick Massi shows off a new character in his repertoire as well as a vocal range we have never seen before. His low notes as Massi should not be ignored as he rounds off the sound beautifully. Elliot Handkins gives a sincere performance as the clean-cut Bob Guardio, who finds his voice through the lyrics he brings the group.
Stand out performances are given by Christopher Wells as Bob Crewe and Jathan “JB” Briscoe as Barry Belson. Wells’ faultless acting skills add a layer to the progression of the group. Briscoe adds a comedic touch to the show and shows off his vocal chops in the Jersey Bows along with Donald Washington (Featured Ensemble).
Leadership
Director Kat Moser-Priddy highlights the differences of each “season” the group goes through in a very intimate way. Her dedication to showcasing the rise, tough times and personal clashes, and the ultimate triumph of a group leads to a streamlined telling of a much beloved group whose music will live on for generations.
Julius Jones’ choreography is fun, well-placed, and helps to move the story and the scene changes forward. Jones is able to create a playful atmosphere that helps create the world of the Four Seasons beginning.
Music Director, Jacob Priddy, had his work cut out for him with on a show of this magnitude. Priddy was able to guide each member through flawless harmonies that seemed to effortlessly flow from each cast member.
The Lighting Design of Denny Reed and Scenic Design of Brett Bowling further throw us into the Four Seasons’ world. Reed is able to perfectly show the juxtaposition between real life and fantasy as each member of the group addresses the audience when telling their “season” of the band. Bowling’s set showcases so many prominent locations in the group’s past. The ease with which we are transported from location to another keeps the audience fully engrossed in the story.
From left to right: Elliot Handkins (Bob Guadio),Josh Galloway (Frankie Valli), Robert Breslin IV (Tommy Devito), Royce Louden (Nick Massi) in Jersey Boys at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre.
Overall
Overall, the production is a good time well spent. If you know someone who loves the music of this generation but may not be an avid theatre goer, this show is perfect! The well-known music plus the story gives any audience member a deeper dive into the world of the Four Seasons.
Tickets to Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys runs through June 23rd 2024 at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater, 801 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204. Just a few seats are left! Call or stop in to see if you can get the few remaining singles or pairs. Purchase your tickets in person at the Box Office, online , or by calling 513-241-6550.
LCT welcomes Shelby Coleman as one of our newest reviewers. Shelby has an extensive background in theatre education and dance and now at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, an LCT Member Organization.
