Sinatra The Musical Review at Aldwych Theatre London

There have been many stage tributes to “Ol’ Blue Eyes” but Sinatra the Musical is a full biographical book musical written by Tony Award-winning Joe DiPietro, known for other biographical shows like Memphis and All Shook Up, as well as his Off-Broadway hit I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. He also penned the musical Diana, which had a cult following through its Netflix release after struggling on Broadway during the pandemic.

iPietro previously collaborated with Broadway director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall on Nice Work if You Can Get It, the 2012 Broadway musical of Gershwin songs, and their collaboration on Sinatra follows in the footsteps of that success, this time with a catalogue of some of the best loved popular songs from the American Songbook.

Sinatra The Musical, focuses on the icon’s early career and his personal struggles before his eventual comeback with Capitol Records. Described as the most revealing portrait ever told about the legendary singer, the overriding theme of adultery sits somewhat uncomfortably at the centre of the story, but admittedly provides most of the drama in this pivotal chapter of Sinatra’s life. The demise of his marriage to Nancy and his brief second marriage to Ava Gardner lead Sinatra to a crossroad. 

Any show about Sinatra needs an impressive leading man, who will inevitably be compared to the star, and Casting Director David Grindrod presents a marvellous talent in Joel Harper-Jackson, who sings the hit songs with a studied intensity and golden tone that justly command the stage. He sings hit after hit with panache and takes on the character of Frank to give us a portrait of a man finding his way back.

The other star of the show is the 16 strong band who are right there with him through all these classic songs, delivering an exceptional musical score under the crisp baton of Dave Rose. Positioned behind the stage, the sliding platforms in the set design by Peter McKintosh allow the entire band to glide forward into full view when Sinatra’s concerts are recreated in the story.

Phoebe Panaretos plays Sinatra’s first wife, Nancy and manages to balance a very human character with the singing and dancing given to her in the musical theatre form. She has a warm, earthy quality to her voice, which beautifully suits Nancy’s role and heartbreak. 

Ana Villafañe, as the movie goddess Ava Gardner, delivers a very polished performance, leaning into both strength and fragility, and a glorious voice to boot. Jenna Russell and Marty Maguire make welcome cameos as Sinatra’s parents, with a lot of humour in their tender portrayal of family.

Several performers step out of the ensemble to take on such icons as Judy Garland, Billie Holiday and Nat King Cole. Particular highlights are Adam Davidson as a light-footed Gene Kelly whose dance solo captures the magic of the golden era of movie musicals, and Becky Anderson who sings with crystal clarity as a vivacious Lana Turner. 

In presenting the nostalgia of 1940s Hollywood, Kathleen Marshall’s choreography delivers the showbiz spectacle that characterises the era, especially in the full company numbers, with the best saved till last. The script is taut and moves swiftly through the action to allow the hit songs to lead the storytelling.

The video design by Akhila Krishnan is most effective when creating the historical context of the story through old-fashioned newspaper clippings or record logos. Jon Morrell‘s costume design is exquisite in capturing the era, especially in emphasising the glamour, even down to details like the shine in Sinatra’s suit.

Sinatra the Musical is an enjoyable evening’s entertainment with marvellous performers and a sensational band delivering a treasure trove of classic songs.

Sinatra The Musical plays at the Aldwych Theatre until 10 April 2027.

Where I Sat

I sat in Stalls K16 at the Aldwych Theatre for this performance. This is a central seat with a clear view, but some seats in this theatre will have more limited sightlines due to the angles and balcony overhangs, so worth checking. However, for this production the action remains very central, which will help views from most areas. The seats were comfortable and noted on the ticket as having a width of 435mm. Legroom is limited as in most older theatres, but ample for me.

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Reviewed by Patrick Jeremyfor SeatPlan, June 2026.