THE BOYS ARE BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER
In the never-ending array of jukebox musicals that have lit up Broadway’s vibrant landscape, Jersey Boys shines like a brilliant star. Premiering in 2005, this musical biography of The Four Seasons skillfully transcends the usual by-the-number plot, weaving a rich tapestry that intertwines their legendary hits with the tumultuous notes of their personal lives. With its ingeniously structured script and vibrant performances, “Jersey Boys” provides a mesmerizing look at the harmonies and conflicts of the 1960s music era.
Noah Rivera and Marlana Dunn
Adam Lendermon, Chris Fore, Blake Burgess, Noah Rivera and Taubert Nadalini
The narrative framework of Jersey Boys divides the story into four parts, each voiced by a different band member. This technique not only serves as an inventive storytelling device but also deepens audience engagement by offering a layered view of the band’s rise and the challenges they faced. This rotating perspective allows the stories of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi to be told with an intimacy and depth that are often absent in similar musicals, highlighting the evolving dynamics within the group.
Blake Burgess, Chris Fore, Carl Thomson, Noah Rivera and Taubert Nadalini
Mel Mehrabian, Dayna Souble, and Marlana Dunn
Musically, Jersey Boys is pitch-perfect. Classics like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” are masterfully integrated into the narrative, pushing the plot forward with each note and lyric. These performances do more than highlight the cast’s talent’”they encapsulate pivotal moments of triumph and adversity, mirroring the personal and professional highs and lows of the band. The arrangements are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, honoring The Four Seasons’ original sound while infusing it with new vitality.
Chris Fore, Noah Rivera, Taubert Nadalini, and Blake Burgess
The La Mirada Theatre ensemble delivers Jersey Boys with a dynamic mix of raw energy and nuanced acting, essential for a production that leans heavily on the charisma and complexity of its characters. Noah Rivera, portraying Valli, not only nails the iconic falsetto but also captures the complexities of Valli’s personal and professional journey. His background as Valli’s backup singer provides him with unique insights into the role.
Blake Burgess, Chris Fore, Noah Rivera, and Taubert Nadalini
Chris Fore brings a compelling blend of charm and turmoil to his portrayal of Tommy DeVito. Blake Burgess offers a subtle performance as Nick Massi, the group’s steady backbone, while Taubert Nadalini brings a youthful energy to Bob Gaudio, the band’s songwriting prodigy. Among the talented ensemble, Gian Raffaele DiConstanzo is notably amusing in his portrayal of the then-unknown Joe Pesci, who plays a pivotal role in the group’s history.
Dominic Pace, Blake Burgess, Noah Rivera, Chris Fore,
Taubert Nadalini and Johnny DiGiorgio
Director TJ Dawson of 3-D Theatricals sticks closely to the successful Broadway formula, incorporating a bit more darkness and realism to enhance the story. Choreographer Dana Solimando’s work is crisp and reflective of the period, adding visual flair to complement the musical delights.
Noah Rivera (center), with Johnny DiGiorgio and Quintan Craig (Top)
The set, designed by Stephen Gifford, ditches the original production’s LED projections for a more textured and darker realism. Jean-Yves Tessier’s lighting design dazzles during performances and effectively sets the mood for each scene, whether joyful, humorous, or tragic. Adam Ramirez’s costumes are flawlessly period-accurate, while Kaitlin Yagen’s hair and wig designs are true to the era but could be more convincing from the sixth row where I was sitting. Musical director Allen Everman’s band is exceptional, with onstage drummer Carl Thompson giving a standout performance. Josh Bessom‘s sound design is flawless, making every lyric clearly audible.
Noah Rivera and Maggie Ek
The Company
Ultimately, what distinguishes Jersey Boys from its jukebox counterparts is not merely its stellar music or inventive structure but its capacity to serve as a cultural lens, reflecting the era’s shifts, dreams, and defining moments. It explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the American dream, capturing the essence of the 1960s with both rawness and refinement. TJ Dawson’s production is a visual and auditory banquet, a true masterclass in crafting a musical that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.
Johnny DiGiorgio, Noah Rivera and Quintan Craig (center) with the company
photos by Jason Niedle
Jersey Boys
3-D Theatricals
in association with La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
& McCoy Rigby Entertainment
14900 La Mirada Blvd. in La Mirada
recommended for mature audiences only
Thurs at 7:30; Fri at 8; Sat at 2 & 8; Sun at 1:30 & 6:30
ends on May 12, 2024
for tickets ($24 – $105), call 562.944.9801 or visit La Mirada Theatre