Theater review: ‘Jersey Boys’ dazzles in every aspect of production
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By TEAGAN STURMER
Special to Journal
Oh what a night! The "Jersey Boys" have hit the stage at the Lake Superior Boathouse Theatre and you do not want to miss this dazzling performance of classic hits and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most popular rock-and-roll bands of the 1960s.
Energetically telling the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons through their range of hit songs, "Jersey Boys" ultimately delivers a story about the rise, the struggles, and the triumph of a group whose music became symbolic of a generation and continues to be loved by many of us today.
Bryce Genovese stars as the legendary Frankie Valli, and man, does he deliver! His falsetto voice lends perfectly to the role, reminiscent of the old crooner himself. Genovese brought me to tears as he gave a powerful and emotional performance of "Fallen Angel," and absolutely brought the house down while singing, "Can't Take My Eyes Off You." You won't be able to stop yourself singing and grooving along!
Alongside Genovese, Mike Fishman captures the role of Tommy DeVito with that mobster-like swagger and the character's loveable villainy. Fishman opens the show with a commanding presence and slips easily into the accent and chemistry of a Jersey Boy.
Quick to join the group is George Marshall as Nick Massi. His mellow tones and killer low-notes were pitch-perfect. Truly, hearing The Four Seasons sing together was a real treat. Marshall also has mastered his character's comedic timing, punchy one-liners, and ultimately, a truly emotional performance. Brava, my friend!
The true stand-out in this production, I have to say, was Marquette native Asa Naigus as Bob Gaudio. Never once did this guy miss a beat. He danced and sang and acted his way across the stage as if he owned the place. He delivered a charismatic, energetic performance and absolutely nailed the vocals in, "Oh What a Night." Pair that voice with strong acting and you have something that is truly spectacular.
The backbone of this show is the ensemble. Making seemingly-impossible quick costume changes and juggling a multitude of roles, these actors prove they've got what it takes. Standouts include Malorie Munson as Valli's wife Mary Delgado, Quinn Skelly as-well ... basically any time he was on stage I was crying laughing-but especially when he appeared as Joe Pesche, and Kaitlin Aisthorpe as Lorraine. Every single actor in this cast, apart from The Four Seasons themselves, had multiple roles and pulled them all off flawlessly. Truly, this is a whole cast of dedicated, talented individuals.
Pulling off a production of this size and renown is no simple feat, but director and choreographer Eliisa Herman has done so beautifully. With her eye for detail and being a triple-threat herself, Herman has guided these actors and this show in exactly the right direction. Marcia Hicks aided as music director and costume designer Amber Christunas gave us all the right 60s vibes with colorful dresses and snazzy suits. Equally, the hair and makeup design of Emmye Wiig glammed up the whole show and made it a delight to watch.
I myself have never seen "Jersey Boys" before, but had an absolute blast singing along with all the songs I somehow knew by heart. Even after 16 years, when it first opened up on Broadway, the show continues to entertain and wow audiences with its classic songs, mob-driven plotline, and behind-the-scenes drama. If you are planning to attend, please be advised that the show does contain adult themes and language!
The show runs July 19-22 and July 25-29 at the Lake Superior Boathouse Theatre. Tickets are currently sold out, but you can call 906-225-ROCK (7625) for rush seating. Visit lakesuperiortheatre.com for more information about upcoming shows.
Teagan Sturmer is a local author, actor, and director.