Sinatra: The Musical at the Aldwych Theatre: Review

Over the past decade, London has been treated to many biographical jukebox musicals depicting the lives of some of the world's biggest stars, from Cher and Tina Turner to Michael Jackson and Jersey Boys.

London's latest musical, Sinatra: The Musical, recently arrived at the Aldwych Theatre, where it is running until April 2027, and tells the story of Frank Sinatra in what is often considered one of the most remarkable showbusiness comebacks.

The show tells the story of Frank Sinatra's early years in the music industry, the breakdown of his marriage to his first wife, Nancy Sinatra, and his whirlwind relationship and subsequent marriage to Hollywood star Ava Gardner.

Frank Sinatra at the Aldwych Theatre, London (Image: Brinkhoff Moegenburg)

It follows the crooner's dramatic fall from fame before charting his remarkable comeback in 1953, when his Oscar-winning role in From Here to Eternity revived his career and led to a recording contract with Capitol Records.

The show picks up at the beginning of Frank's career as he prepares to take to the stage at New York's Paramount Theatre on New Year's Eve 1942, shortly after the birth of his first child.

This did mean I found it harder to connect with the protagonist at some points compared with other shows such as Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, which told her story from childhood right through to adulthood.

Vocally, the show was stunning, with the entire cast delivering a striking vocal range and outstanding renditions of some of Sinatra's best-known songs.

The costume and set design by Peter McKintosh was simply stunning, holding its own against other productions that have graced the West End, such as The Great Gatsby, when it came to the "wow factor" of the visuals.

Joel Harper-Jackson as Frank Sinatra (Image: Brinkhoff Moegenburg)

Joel Harper-Jackson, who plays Frank Sinatra, delivers an incredible performance. His voice emulates the smooth and rich vocals of the late singer, which really comes through in songs such as That's Life and The Best Is Yet to Come.

Jenna Russell, who plays Frank's fiery mother Dolly Sinatra, adds real gumption and humour to the role, while also sharing great chemistry with Frank's father, Marty Sinatra, played by Marty Maguire.

Ana Villafañe is a real powerhouse as Ava Gardner, bringing strength and confidence to the role, while Phoebe Panaretos, who plays Frank's wife Nancy Sinatra, brings real depth to her portrayal of the wronged ex-wife and single mother of three children.

Joel Harper-Jackson (Frank Sinatra) Ana Villafañe (Ava Gardner ) (Image: Brinkhoff Moegenburg)

Ultimately, the show is an all-singing, all-dancing tribute to one of the most remarkable musical comebacks in Hollywood history.

Sinatra: The Musical will be playing at the Aldwych Theatre until April 2027, but if I had it my way, it would be on for a lot longer.