REVIEW | Sinatra The Musical, Birmingham Rep

★ ★ ★ ★

Reviewer - Emmie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review

---

Joe Dipietro had huge success when he brought What’s New Pussycat? to the Birmingham Rep in 2021 so writing a new musical on one of the biggest stars of the 1940s and 50s has the opportunity to do just as well. Sinatra The Musical is a show which unearths Frank Sinatra. We experience his rise to fame, his encounter with some of the biggest names of that era, how he crashed spectacularly before making one of the most dramatic showbusiness comebacks ever to happen. 

This production aligns with those we’ve seen in recent years like Jersey Boys and The Cher Show so notably fans of the singer will carry huge expectations for this musical. This style of show weaves some of the artist’s greatest songs into a re-telling of their life, it’s a great source of storytelling that works so well.

The presentation of this production from Peter McKintosh’s set design to Jon Morrell’s costumes oozes the correct level of Hollywood glamour and class that you’d associate with this era. Sinatra The Musical moves at an incredible pace with Joe Dipietro’s book trying to contain as much of the story needed to represent the rise and fall of Frank’s career. This is executed with scenery smoothly transitioning from all sides of the stage at a quick pace. This musical will require the audience to fully engage themselves in the experience of this show to get to grips with the storyline. I think it is fair to say that the first act feels slightly longer than it needs to be - there are some missed opportunities to wrap it up slightly earlier. However, leading man Matt Doyle’s solo at the end of the first act wraps it up in a spectacular style that you won’t forget. 

Talking of leading men, Matt Doyle has the almighty task of bringing this hugely influential individual to life and does so in a way that is commendable. Doyle is a naturally wonderful performer to watch who has dived into this character with all that he has to offer. He does a brilliant job at exploring his rise to fame, and the relationships he has with women - particularly the mother of his children Nancy and Hollywood super actress, Ava Gardner. Doyle portrays so many different levels to this character and there’s no doubt that this character will be the pinnacle of his career. Frank Sinatra has a distinctive voice, particularly in songs like ‘Come Fly With Me’ which are the most recognisable, Matt Doyle doesn’t quite deliver it but he is a gorgeous performer to watch.

Phoebe Panarettos delivers a heartwrenching performer of Sinatra’s long-suffering first wife with an admirable level of both grace and dignity whereas Ana Villafane brings to life the sexy and self-assured Ava Gardner, who was the second wife. Although the performance from Dawn Buckland as Dolly Sinatra, Frank’s ballsy mother delivers a lot of laughs and light relief from this story.

A shoutout to the ensemble too! Their delivery of Kathleen Marshall’s hit all the right spots and often they would play multiple supporting roles that were essential in the execution. A particular shout-out to Greg Bernstein who does a particularly brilliant job with the portrayal of Gene Kelly. Also not forgetting the unforgettable orchestra that brought those distinguishable musical scores, conducted by Mark Aspinall, to life. I was in complete awe of them, particularly as they played after the finale to a roaring applause afterwards. Being able to witness live music like that was something that is essential to productions like this new musical.

Overall, Sinatra The Musical is a gem of a show that will resonate with devoted fans of the singer but also allow younger audiences to experience a snapshot of music history like never before. It’s captivating from start to finish.

At The Rep, Birmingham until 28 October.