Toby Miles (Jersey Boys)

As Jersey Boys celebrates its 20th anniversary with a new UK and Ireland tour, audiences once again have the chance to experience the extraordinary story behind one of the world's most successful bands. Following the rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons through a catalogue of their timeless hits, the award-winning musical continues to captivate theatre fans. We took the opportunity to speak with Toby Miles, who plays Bob Gaudio, to discuss joining such an iconic production during its milestone, the responsibilities that come with portraying a real-life music legend and why the story of Jersey Boys continues to resonate with audiences two decades after it first premiered.

Q) Jersey Boys is currently touring around the UK and Ireland as part of its 20th Anniversary - what does it mean to be joining such an iconic production during this milestone?

It's a real privilege. Jersey Boys has become a modern classic, and being part of the company during its 20th anniversary feels incredibly special. The show has such a loyal following, but it's also introducing new audiences to the story every night. To be part of that legacy at such a significant moment is something I'm very proud of.

Q) What in particular about Jersey Boys piqued your interest and made you want to be involved?

I've always loved shows that tell true stories, and Jersey Boys does that brilliantly. It's not just a series of great songs – it's a fascinating look at the people behind the music, their relationships and the sacrifices that came with success. And then you add to that one of the greatest song books ever written.

Q) You play Bob Gaudio, who was the creative force behind many of The Four Seasons' biggest hits. As a performer, how do you approach playing a real person as opposed to a fictional character?

There's definitely an added sense of responsibility because you're portraying someone who isn’t fictional. I tried to learn as much as I could about Bob, not just the facts of his life but how he carried himself, how he interacted with people and what drove him creatively.

Q) Is there anything in particular that surprised you or resonated with you when either researching about Bob Gaudio/The Four Seasons, or during the rehearsal process when you read the script?

I was struck by just how young Bob was when he joined the group and started writing so many of those iconic songs. It's easy to forget that behind these timeless classics was someone in his late teens and early twenties making huge creative decisions. It really highlights the confidence, talent and instinct he had from such a young age.

Q) Touring can be demanding but incredibly rewarding. What do you enjoy most about performing for audiences in different cities?

Every audience brings something different. Some are quieter and really absorb the story, while others are up on their feet before the curtain call. It's exciting, never quite knowing what atmosphere each performance will have.

Q) The Four Seasons have an incredible catalogue of songs - what is your favourite song to perform on stage?

It's hard to choose, but Beggin' is a real highlight. It has such incredible energy, and you can feel the audience instantly connect with it.

Q) Their music has endured for generations - why do you think their music is so timeless?

The songs are incredibly well written. The melodies are memorable, the harmonies are distinctive, and the lyrics are honest and relatable. Great songs really do just live on, and people of all ages will always continue to connect with them.

Q) Jersey Boys is one of the most successful jukebox musicals - what do you think draws people to this style of theatre?

People arrive already feeling connected to the music, but what often surprises them is how powerful the storytelling is. A great jukebox musical doesn't just string songs together – it gives them context and meaning. You come away hearing familiar songs in a completely different way.

Q) As a performer, are there any challenges or any added sense of responsibility that comes from singing such well-known songs, potentially in front of an audience full of fans of The Four Seasons?

Many audience members know these songs inside out, so you want to honour what makes them special while also telling the story truthfully. Ultimately, the songs aren't there to show off vocally – they're there to reveal character and move the story forward, so that's always the priority.

Q) How, as a performer, do you ensure that the songs help to showcase Bob Gaudio and the relationships and journey that the band went on together?

For me, it's about understanding what Bob wants in every moment and how each song reflects what's happening in his life. Every lyric has a purpose within the story. If you're connected to that, the audience experiences the songs as part of the narrative rather than simply recognisable hits.

Q) While Jersey Boys celebrates incredible success, it's also a story about ambition, loyalty and the complexities of friendship. Why do you think those themes remain so relatable?

Because they're universal. Most people have experienced friendships evolving, difficult decisions, balancing ambition with relationships or trying to stay true to themselves while life changes around them. Those themes feel just as relevant today as they did sixty years ago.

Q) The show explores both the highs and lows of fame. What do you think audiences can learn from seeing the human side of these music legends?

I think it's a reminder that success doesn't make people immune to life's challenges. Behind the chart-topping records were real people navigating family, friendship, pressure and loss. It's those human moments that make the story so moving.

Q) Jersey Boys has introduced the story of The Four Seasons to millions of people around the world. What do you hope first-time audiences—and those returning to celebrate its 20th anniversary—will take away from this new tour?

I hope they leave having had a fantastic night at the theatre, but also with a greater appreciation for the remarkable story behind the music.

Q) A fun question to finish off - which band/performer would you like there to be a jukebox musical for?

I'd love to see one about Elton John and Bernie Taupin's creative partnership. We've seen aspects of Elton's story before, but exploring the relationship between the songwriter and lyricist, and how those iconic songs came to life, would make for a fascinating piece of theatre.

Jersey Boys is currently touring until August 2027 - tickets and more information can be found here.

Photography by Mark Senior