A new musical chronicling the life of Frank Sinatra, titled "Sinatra," has opened at London's Aldwych Theatre, but is receiving a largely negative reception, with one review calling it an "insult" and "not ready for Broadway." Directed by Kathleen Marshall, the production has been criticized for its "cruise ship treatment" of the legendary singer's life, lacking modern flair and relying heavily on hokiness.
The musical, which runs for two hours and 45 minutes with one intermission, begins its narrative at the end of Sinatra's Paramount Theatre residency in 1944, following a period of career slump and a subsequent resurgence in 1956 with the "I've Got The World On A String" album. Despite having Frank Sinatra Enterprises and his daughter Tina Sinatra involved as producers, the show's current state is deemed unsuitable for a New York transfer.
Critics point to a "hackneyed book" by Joe DiPietro that is perceived as robotic in its delivery. The narrative predominantly focuses on Sinatra's extramarital affairs in Hollywood, including his relationships with Judy Garland, Lana Turner, Marlene Dietrich, and Ava Gardner. The musical reportedly cuts off mid-song during "My Way" and features songs used as character numbers rather than performances in a studio or on stage. For instance, "Just The Way You Look Tonight" is reportedly sung to his daughter after the Oscars.
Joel Harper-Jackson stars as Frank Sinatra, noted for his vocal resemblance to the singer, though he is described as not quite managing to rise above an impression. The portrayal of his parents, played by Jenna Russell and Marty Maguire, is singled out for its comedic relief, with a rendition of "You Make Me Feel So Young" being highlighted as a low point.
In contrast, the review of "Tina – The Tina Turner Musical," which also premiered at the Aldwych, is mentioned as having moments that provided chills as a regular girl evolved into a superstar. "Sinatra," however, is described as failing to offer similar emotional depth or musical excitement.
The production's choreography is called "droopy," and the overall staging is compared unfavorably to other biographical musicals. The review contrasts "Sinatra" with the Bobby Darin musical "Just in Time," which, despite Darin being a lesser-known figure with fewer enduring songs, is lauded for its sensational direction and immersive transportative qualities. "Sinatra," the review concludes, offers little transcendence, appearing as a "cheap-o tribute show."