The Aldwych Theatre, recently home to Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, now welcomes Sinatra The Musical, a new West End production celebrating one of the most enduring names in music. It may be nearly three decades since Ol’ Blue Eyes passed away, but Frank Sinatra’s appeal clearly endures, and Sinatra The Musical leans fully into that legacy with a warm, crowd-pleasing approach.
From the outset, it is clear that much of the audience arrives already devoted, but this is the kind of jukebox musical that could just as easily bring newcomers into the fold. The score draws from a broad catalogue rather than simply the biggest hits, and while not every number is instantly recognisable, most carry a familiar feel.
As a jukebox musical, Sinatra The Musical uses this music to explore a very specific period of Sinatra’s life. It may come as a surprise that, after early success, his career faltered before his casting as Maggio in From Here to Eternity helped turn things around. Yet this production is less concerned with the comeback than with the struggle that preceded it. We see Sinatra lose record deals and film contracts, and cling to the determination forged in Hoboken, New Jersey, as he fights an industry that has largely written him off.
It’s a compelling premise, though Joe DiPietro’s book lingers too long in that low point. Sinatra’s self-pity begins to wear thin, and the depiction of his personal life, particularly his affairs and marriage to Ava Gardner, frames him as a charming rogue which may not sit comfortably with all audiences.
Even so, the audience ultimately warms to this version of Sinatra, due in no small part to a ‘nothing but the best’ performance from Joel Harper-Jackson in the title role. It is an exceptional piece of work: a finely judged, vocally assured turn that captures both the precision and the ease of Sinatra at his peak. His speaking voice and vocals are so closely aligned with the original that, at times, it feels less like interpretation and more like inhabitation. Close your eyes and you could be transported to one of those famed Vegas residencies.
The physical detail, phrasing and effortless cool all combine to create a remarkably complete portrayal, and it is this performance that anchors the show throughout. Joel Harper-Jackson as Sinatra is the real deal.
Jenna Russell brings warmth and bite as Dolly Sinatra, matched by Marty Maguire’s grounded turn as Marty Sinatra, their scenes played with an easy, believable chemistry. Phoebe Panaretos gives Nancy Sinatra a quiet dignity and emotional clarity, ensuring she is far more than a sidelined figure in Frank’s story, while Ana Villafañe makes a striking impression as Ava Gardner, capturing both her star quality and inner steel. Together, they add welcome depth to a narrative that might otherwise sit too squarely with its central figure.
Peter McKintosh’s set does not strive for spectacle, but it is effective, often employing a monochrome palette that evokes the period, punctuated by elegant art deco touches that place us firmly in mid-century America. Jon Morrell’s costumes complement this beautifully, adding richness and texture without overwhelming the stage.
Dance is more central here than might be expected. Kathleen Marshall’s choreography restores that element, weaving period movement throughout the piece with style and precision. A brief but memorable tap sequence from Adam Davidson as Gene Kelly stands out early on.
The second act, despite containing moments that could be tightened, opens with a striking rendition of My Way, once again showcasing Harper-Jackson’s command of the material, though the song is frustratingly cut short. Given that the Birmingham run reportedly omitted it altogether, licensing constraints may explain both its truncation here and the absence of several other well-known numbers.
Any narrative shortcomings are largely forgiven by the time the show reaches its finale. New York, New York is, unsurprisingly, held back to the end, sending the audience out on a high. For all its focus on doubt, excess and missteps, Sinatra The Musical ultimately succeeds, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the music that made Frank Sinatra an enduring icon.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
