Oh, What a Night! A.C.T. of CT Kicks Off 7th Season with Electrifying "Jersey Boys"
It bears repeating—oh, what a night! A.C.T. of CT has officially opened its 7th season with a bang, launching JERSEY BOYS, the thrilling story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. This production pulls back the curtain to reveal the heart, grit, and determination of four blue-collar boys from Belleville, NJ, who took the music world by storm. With street smarts and an unstoppable love for music, they navigated personal struggles and fame, proving that some friendships really are thicker than blood.
Seeing Jersey Boys live in the theater is an experience like no other. The energy is electric, with each song, dance, and moment feeling vibrant and personal. You’re not just watching a story unfold—you’re part of the atmosphere, where the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons pulses through the crowd, making you want to clap, sing along, and lose yourself in the performance. It’s a thrilling, dynamic experience that no TV screen or movie theater can match. For a night out, there’s nothing more captivating than being in the audience as the cast brings this iconic story to life.
Jersey Boys isn’t just about the music; it’s a tribute to the unbreakable bond of friendship that fueled the rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. With hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the show takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through their struggles, successes, and enduring brotherhood. It all begins on a street corner in Belleville, New Jersey, in the early 1950s, where their harmonies first united and set the stage for their incredible rise to stardom.
Meet the Four Seasons
The A+ casting in this production shines through with every note and every scene. Gian Raffaele DiCostanzo, as Frankie Valli, is nothing short of stellar. His powerful, high-register falsetto captures the unmistakable sound of Valli, effortlessly transporting audiences back to the 1960s. DiCostanzo not only looks and moves like the legendary singer but delivers each iconic hit with the passion and precision that made Valli a music icon.
Alongside DiCostanzo, Christian Engelhardt plays Bob Gaudio, Matthew Stoke takes on Tommy DeVito, and Anthony Cangiamila embodies Nick Massi. Together, their harmonies are pitch-perfect, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the Four Seasons’ sound.
Stoke—just WOW! As the driving force behind the band, Matthew Stoke masterfully portrays Tommy DeVito, balancing the street-smart, tough-talking delinquent with a charismatic, talented musician. His performance captures Tommy’s raw, gritty edge while showcasing his undeniable musical prowess, making it no easy feat to bring such a complex character to life.
Director and Choreographer Bring Fresh Energy
Under the expert direction of Christopher D. Betts, this rendition of JERSEY BOYS offers a fresh take on the beloved musical while staying true to its roots. Betts incorporates innovative staging techniques, including the use of a turntable in place of the traditional bridge, which allows for smooth transitions across the show’s impressive 75 different locations. One standout feature of
Emily Franch’s choreography is another standout element, as she masterfully combines period-specific dance moves with the natural talent of the cast. Her attention to detail transports audiences to the era of doo-wop, leather jackets, and street corner harmonies, evoking the essence of the 1960s in every movement.
Authentic Storytelling and Iconic Music
Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine emphasizes that this production’s magic lies not only in the music but also in the authenticity of the storytelling. The production team worked tirelessly to capture the tight harmonies and distinct vocals that made Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons famous. In this intimate theater setting, A.C.T. of CT’s JERSEY BOYS invites audiences to experience the group’s rise to stardom in a way that feels personal and deeply emotional.
Winner of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, JERSEY BOYS is a timeless story about loyalty, friendship, and the unstoppable power of music. As they navigate their way through the highs and lows of fame, these four boys from Jersey prove that no matter how far you rise, you never forget where you came from—and a handshake still means something.
Extended Run Due to Overwhelming Demand
Due to overwhelming demand, A.C.T. of CT has extended the run of JERSEY BOYS through November 17, with an additional performance on Wednesday, November 6, at 7:00 p.m. The show has been selling out faster than Frankie Valli can hit that iconic high note in “Sherry,” so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable theatrical experience.
Get ready to be swept away by the sounds, the story, and the energy of JERSEY BOYS, only at A.C.T. of Connecticut. Secure your tickets now before they’re gone!
Tickets: Jersey Boys at A.C.T. of CT