Hit musical Jersey Boys tells the story of Frankie Valli, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to a career marked by controversy and heartbreak. Luke Baker is the latest actor to step into Frankie’s shoes, and he spoke to Buzz about Jersey Boys’ continued appeal and his efforts to find the man behind one of music’s most recognisable voices.
Jersey Boys is one of the most successful musicals of all time – what made you want to be part of this latest version?
I’ve admired Jersey Boys for years. I grew up listening to a lot of this music, so it has always felt familiar to me. It’s one of those rare musicals that appeals to everyone. The songs are timeless, but what really drew me in is the storytelling – gritty, funny, emotional and incredibly honest. The chance to tell Frankie Valli’s story while singing one of the greatest song catalogues ever written was something I couldn’t turn down.
How do you balance paying tribute to a voice as distinctive as Frankie Valli without slipping into impersonation?
That’s probably the biggest challenge – Frankie is instantly recognisable, so there’s a fine line. My aim has always been to find the man behind the legend. If audiences stop thinking about whether I’m sounding exactly like Frankie and instead become invested in his journey, then I’ve done my job.
Is there one song that still gives you a buzz every time you perform it?
It has to be Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. You can feel the excitement in the audience before you’ve even sung a note – there’s an energy that builds throughout the theatre. I also love performing Fallen Angel, because it’s such an important storytelling moment in the show.
People often think they’re coming to see a concert. Is that one of the biggest misconceptions about Jersey Boys?
Absolutely! People expect a concert and leave having experienced a genuinely gripping piece of theatre. You’ll hear all those incredible songs, but underneath that it’s a story about loyalty, ambition, family and sacrifice. That’s what surprises people most.
Those famous Four Seasons harmonies sound effortless, but I imagine they’re anything but…
Far more work goes into them than people realise. We spend hours refining every chord, matching vowels and balancing every voice. It’s incredibly detailed work, but once those harmonies lock together, it’s one of the most satisfying sounds you’ll ever be part of.
How do you keep your voice in shape throughout a long tour?
Consistency! I sleep well, stay hydrated and always warm up properly. I’m also fortunate that I perform Frankie six times a week – the wonderful Ellis Kirk performs the other two shows.
Looking back over your career, has there been a moment that changed the way you approach performing?
Performing live during the EastEnders 40th anniversary episode taught me to trust my preparation. Creating and performing my Sinatra show [Baby Blue Eyes] also reinforced something I’ve always believed – that audiences connect with honesty more than perfection.
When audiences leave the theatre, what do you hope they’re talking about?
I hope they’re talking about the characters just as much as the music. If people are discussing Tommy, Bob, Nick and Frankie on the journey home, then we’ve done our job because they’ve connected with the story as well as the songs.
What does downtime look like once the curtain comes down?
We’re a really close company. Sometimes it’s heading out for food after the show, sometimes exploring whichever city we’re in, and sometimes it’s simply having a laugh backstage. Touring creates friendships that last long after the final curtain.
Jersey Boys, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Tue 11-Sat 22 Aug
Tickets: £19-£91. Info: here
words ANTONIA LEVAY
