Jersey Boys - CM Performing Arts Center | 4.18.26

Photo Credit: Janette Pellegrini

CM Performing Arts Center is currently producing the Broadway hit musical "Jersey Boys" from April 18th to May 17th – it tells the story about the rise and fall of the 1960s rock and roll group the Four Seasons. In it, you will get to see how they came together, the challenges each one faced financially and romantically, their breakup, and eventual reunion when the group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. This is a jukebox musical that tells their story through multiple POVs, with each member getting a chance to narrate a bit of their history. Very unique! The Four Seasons are comprised of Frankie Valli (played by Robert De Persio III), Bob Gaudio (Aidan Schroh), Nick Massi (Bruce Konopa), and Tommy DeVito (Mike Fales) and each gentleman brought something unique to the table.

It only feels right to begin with De Persio, who's falsetto sounded clear and stronger than ever! I've had the good fortune of knowing him since he was much younger and it is incredible to see what he's able to do now. He played Frankie Valli so well – funny and endearing when called for, yet firm and straightforward in some of the more tense moments. Once you take all of that and consider it alongside his young age…really awesome. While the show is full of great vocal moments from De Persio, among my favorites were "Big Girls Don't Cry" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You" – both of which you will likely find familiar. After this production, I am excited to see what De Persio does next! Schroh in his portrayal of Bob Gaudio was quite strong too, as he ended up being one of my favorite narrators of the quartet. He maintained great chemistry with De Persio in their scenes together, showcasing how close Bob and Frankie were outside of the other two members. Schroh absolutely soared on numbers like "December '63 (Oh What a Night)" and "Stay."

Mike Fales is making his CM Performing Arts Center debut in this production as Tommy DeVito after what was a long break from theater.

Approximately 10 years or so!

John Mazzarella, Mike Fales.

Photo Credit: Janette Pellegrini

And his performance was well worth the wait. Fales was captivating as he narrated his bits of the story and brought tremendous presence and light every time he stepped forward. An excellent return to the stage, I must say! Bruce Konopa's portrayal of Nick Massi rounds out the Four Seasons nicely. Konopa did a fantastic job showing us how Nick prioritized the music over anything, while keeping the group vocals harmonious. Thankfully, the ensemble has just as much talent as the four leading men! "Jersey Boys" isn't just a boys club and the females do more than hold their own. "My Boyfriend's Back" is a recognizable favorite and Sarah Minto, Shea McMahon, and Dea Ahlgrim do it justice. You will also find them playing various roles throughout the show as well, doubling as parents and girlfriends and it's always great to see talent that isn't one-sided. I was also impressed with John Mazzarella who played Joe Pesci, among other characters. His ability to hop between different accents, mannerisms, and costumes without missing a beat has really become the foundation for cementing himself as a true, bonafide character actor.

The rest of the ensemble lifted this production exponentially. This show is deceivingly large with lots of things going on and the cast moved in and out of each scene like a well-oiled machine. Nick Zappetti made his CM directorial debut with this production and showed significant knowledge of the story of the Four Seasons and the culture of the time, complementing Kevin Burns' chorography nicely as well. Needless to say, the other star of the show was the music – directed by CM Veteran Carl Hottinger. The Jersey Boys Band sounded amazing, and the success of each number is largely thanks to his efforts, so way to go Carl! In addition to playing Joe Pesci, Mazzarella also designed the set for this production and it lived up to the expectations his previous work calls for. I especially liked the platform that was built over the pit! As a long time CM patron (and performer, thank you!) I thought it was really cool to see the performers coming out that close to the audience. If you are able to score tickets for this one, I encourage you to do so! The comedy, music, and storytelling all came together to create an enjoyable evening of theater with a little something for everyone – no matter how deep your interest in theater goes. Additionally, for the first time ever CM is presenting a Sensory Sensitive performance of a mainstage show with this production on Sunday, May 3rd. For more information on the Sensory Sensitive performance or to secure tickets for another performance, you can do so by calling the box office or visiting their website at www.cmpac.com.

Aidan Schroh, Robert De Persio III, Mike Fales, Bruce Konopa.

Photo Credit: Janette Pellegrini

Cast:

Frankie’s Mom (and others) - Dea Ahlgrim

Hal Miller (and others) - Shiloh Bowen

Ralph Knuckles (and others) - Eddie D’Atri

Frankie Valli - Robert De Persio III

Gyp (and others) - John DiGiorgio

Tommy DeVito - Mike Fales

Nick Massi - Bruce Konopa

Joey (and others) - John Mazzarella

Francine (and others) - Shea McMahon

Lorraine (and others) - Sarah Minto

Nick DeVito (and others) - James O’Connor

Bob Crewe (and others) - Peter Rudilosso

Bob Gaudio - Aidan Schroh

Mary Delgado (and others) - Katy Trunz

Creative Team:

Director - Nick Zappetti

Assistant Director - Anthony Arpino

MUSIC DIRECTOR - Carl Hottinger

Stage Managers - Will Brennan & Cadence De Persio

Asst. Stage Manager - Juliana Jagielo

CHOREOGRAPHER - Kevin Burns

SOUND Designer - Silvio Sweet

PROPS DESIGNER - Heather Van Velsor

Scenic Designer - JOHN MAZZARELLA

LIGHTING DESIGNER - Kevin Purdy

Costume/WIG Designer - Sydnee LaBuda

The Jersey Boys Band:

Conducted by Carl Hottinger

Keyboards - Carl Hottinger, Vinnie Malafronte

Guitars - John Dericco

Bass - Shiori Chozono

Drums/Percussion - Mike Ayala

Reeds - Eric Albinder, Brendan Meier

Trumpet - David Lugo