A note-perfect celebration of Sinatra's music elevated by a star turn from Joel Harper-Jackson.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What's it about?
Written by Joe DiPietro and directed and choreographed by Kathleen Marshall, Sinatra The Musical charts the extraordinary rise, fall and resurgence of one of the most influential entertainers of the twentieth century, Frank Sinatra. Told through the lens of his relationships, career highs and personal struggles, the show weaves together more than twenty of Sinatra's greatest hits to tell the story behind the legend.
What we loved best
The production belongs to Joel Harper-Jackson. As Sinatra, he is simply sublime. Perfectly cast, Harper-Jackson exudes charisma from the moment he steps on stage, appearing completely at ease inhabiting one of music's most iconic figures. His vocals are sensational; at times it genuinely feels as though you are listening to Sinatra himself. It is a star performance that anchors the entire evening.
Opposite him, Ana Villafañe brings old Hollywood glamour, elegance and warmth to Ava Gardner. Their chemistry is electric, making the relationship at the centre of the story both believable and compelling.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Jenna Russell is excellent as Sinatra's formidable mother Dolly, while Marty Maguire brings real heart to Marty Sinatra. Particular praise must go to Lee Zarrett as long-time manager George Evans, who delivers one of the evening's standout supporting performances.
Of course, the real star of any Sinatra show is the music itself. Hearing these timeless songs performed live by a superb on-stage orchestra is a genuine thrill. From the soaring ballads to the swinging classics, the score reminds us why Sinatra's catalogue remains one of the greatest in popular music.
Anything we'd change?
For a major new West End musical about one of the biggest entertainers in history, the set feels surprisingly understated. While functional, it rarely delivers the sense of spectacle the material deserves and at times feels more akin to a touring production than a flagship West End premiere.
The choreography is also somewhat repetitive. Similar movement vocabulary reappears across multiple numbers, and there is a noticeable absence of a truly show-stopping dance sequence. Several musical numbers also feel as though they end just as they are gathering momentum, leaving you wanting a fuller realisation of the song.
Who would enjoy it?
Sinatra fans will be in heaven, but this is also an enjoyable evening for anyone who appreciates classic musical theatre, big-band sounds and old Hollywood glamour. If you love hearing great songs performed by exceptional musicians and singers, there's plenty here to savour.
Who created it?
The production features a book by Joe DiPietro and is directed and choreographed by Kathleen Marshall. The creative team includes Tim Hatley (set and costume design), Natasha Katz (lighting design), Adam Fisher (sound design), Gareth Valentine (music direction) and Chris Walker (orchestrations).
Verdict
While the production could benefit from greater visual ambition, the combination of Sinatra's extraordinary catalogue and Joel Harper-Jackson's outstanding performance makes this an entertaining night at the theatre.