Last night Sweetie and I ventured downtown to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center to see the touring production of “Jersey Boys.” It is the story of Franki Valli and the Four Seasons starting from way back when a few kids from New Jersey gathered under a street light and came up with their new sound.

They get into the business and go on tour playing clubs all over the USA looking for their big break under names “The Lovers,” “The Royal Teens,”  and “The Romans” looking for the big hit.

A little past halfway in the first act the band finally finds their hit “Sherry.” When that song starts it almost explodes off the stage and has a visceral effect on the audience. These guys nail the song and they follow it up with “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Walk Like a Man.” It might be the best three consecutive songs I have ever heard in a musical.

From then on the production is about band dealing with their success and the pressures and problems of trying to keep a family together while touring. It is also about the complicated business dealings in the musical business and the effect that has on the band. It is also how the band held their own against the British Invasion of the 1960’s.

It also shows the musical evolution of the group from upbeat teen pop songs to more grown up and introspective fare such as “Stay”, “Bye Bye Baby”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You”, and “Rag Doll.”

I loved this show, Five Stars out of Five for Musicals as far as I am concerned. It’s here in Tulsa until June 24 and then it goes to Denver. Go see it, you’ll love it.