Review: Jersey Boys at Wales Millennium Centre

Jersey Boys at Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre is an absolute delight for any music lover. The production is a fantastic jukebox musical that will leave you tapping your feet and humming tunes long after the show is over.

From the moment the curtains rise, the auditorium is alive with happiness. The set is simple yet effective, and the choreography is top-notch, bringing to life the iconic songs of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. The audience is transported back in time to the streets of New Jersey, where the four young men start their journey to becoming one of the greatest bands of all time.

The show’s main cast members, Michael Pickering as Frankie Valli, Blair Gibson as Bob Gaudio, Christopher Short as Nick Massi, and Dalton Wood as Tommy DeVito, deliver a flawless performance. Michael Pickering’s portrayal of Frankie Valli is particularly outstanding. He perfectly captures Valli’s unique falsetto voice and leaves the audience stunned.

The music is, of course, the star of the show. With hits like Big Girls Don’t Cry, Oh What A Night, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, and Working My Way Back To You, the production features an impressive lineup of classic songs that crosses the Atlantic.

The show’s narrative is compelling, taking the audience behind the music and inside the story of each of the four singers. The storytelling is well-paced, with enough humor and drama to keep the audience engaged throughout. The show is packed with memorable moments, from the band’s rise to fame to their eventual split, and the audience is taken on an emotional journey that is both entertaining and moving.

One of the things that make Jersey Boys such a special musical is its universal appeal. The show has been seen by almost 30 million people worldwide and has won 65 major awards. It is easy to see why. The music, the storytelling, and the performances all come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

It is worth mentioning that the venue has recently opened a new café called Ffwrnais, located right at the building’s heart. The café celebrates Welsh artisan produce and creativity in all its forms, offering a range of delicious food and drink options. From Quantum coffee to Pettigrew pastries and botanical gins, Ffwrnais has something for everyone. If you are attending Jersey Boys or any other show at the venue, Ffwrnais is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a drink before the show. Also on offer are a variety of locally produced beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages, making it a great spot for a pre-show drink.

This musical is a must-see for any music lover or anyone who appreciates a good story. It is a fantastic production that will leave you humming tunes and tapping your feet long after the show is over.

Jersey Boys is on at Wales Millennium Centre’s Donald Gordon Theatre 11 – 22 April 2023. Tickets from £17.50 available online here or from the Wales Millennium Centre Box Office.