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Ol' Blue Eyes: A Raw Look at Sinatra's Nadir
25 Jun
Summary
- Musical explores Sinatra's difficult late 40s and early 50s.
- Joel Harper-Jackson embodies Sinatra's swagger and vocals.
- Production features big band numbers and choreography.
Premiering in the West End after its initial staging in Birmingham three years ago, "Ol' Blue Eyes" offers a vibrant exploration of Frank Sinatra's tumultuous years. The musical centers on the late 1940s and early 1950s, a period when the singer's extraordinary talent seemed at risk.
Joel Harper-Jackson delivers a compelling performance as Sinatra, masterfully blending vocal power with the artist's signature swagger. The narrative begins at the height of his fame, showcasing his adoration from fans and early career successes.
However, the musical pivots to Sinatra's passionate affair with Ava Gardner, which significantly impacts his marriage. While the production, directed by Kathleen Marshall, is filled with big band hits and energetic choreography, the book by Joe DiPietro, shaped with input from Sinatra's daughter Tina, grapples with portraying the full depth of his personal and professional challenges.
