Reviews

MY WAY: A Musical Tribute To Frank Sinatra 

Christopher Brasfield, Alyssa Giannetti, Lucy Horton, and Danny Drewes in “MY WAY: A Musical Tribute To Frank Sinatra” at Theatre By The Sea thru June 11. Photo by Michael Derr.

In celebration of 90 Years of Theatre By The Sea, owner and producer Bill Hanney is proud to announce the opening of the 2023 season with the award-winning musical, My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra. Directed and choreographed by Greg Santos, this musical is sure to please fans of Ol’ Blue Eyes. “I have been looking forward to celebrating the 90th anniversary of Theatre By The Sea (TBTS) since selecting this season’s productions, which celebrate some of the greatest voices of the 20th century,” said Hanney. “My Way is a musical tribute to Frank Sinatra, who was considered by many to be one of the greatest American singers of our time.” 

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Sinatra was once quoted as saying, “The best revenge is massive success.” If that’s true, then My Way is the best way to pay homage. Known as the King of Swing, and the Chairman of the Board, Ol’ Blue Eyes charmed his way into the hearts of millions. If you cats love the Rat Pack, you should definitely come celebrate the pivotal moments of this crooner’s remarkable five-decade career with a journey through his greatest hits. With musical direction by Broadway pianist/conductor Milton Granger, four performers sing more than 50 classics such as “Summer Wind,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and “New York, New York.” The cast includes veteran performers Christopher Brasfield, Daniel Drewes, Alyssa Giannetti and Lucy Horton (swings Kaléa Leverette and Lucas Weber). 

TBTS promises, “You’ll experience the elegance of “The Chairman of the Board” as you’re transported back to the era of supper clubs, vintage Las Vegas and the perfect martini.” Resident scenic designer Kyle Dixon has us feeling like we’re in a 60s speakeasy getting up close and personal with the performers. Costume design by Kelly Baker fits right in with the garb of the era. Lighting designer Katie Whittemore uses high and low lighting to reflect the mood of each song, and co sound designers Don Hanna and Alex Berg keep the music beautifully fluid. 

If you’re wanting to hear a Sinatra impersonator, this isn’t that. The performers make the songs their own. While we learn about Sinatra’s life, and get into the swing of the songs he made popular (I especially loved the four-part harmonies), it’s hard not to feel Frankie’s presence. This is meant as a fun tribute to him. He faced it all, stood tall, and did it his way. 

TBTS presents My Way through June 11. For more info, visit www.theatrebythesea.com/myway.

Bravo by the Sea is open for on-sight dining just a short stroll down the arbor walk adjacent to the theater. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online at www.theatrebythesea.com/menu or by calling (401) 789-3030.