By BRITT HAEFELI

On Saturday, April 29th, I sat with Quinn Patrick Shannon, the Conservatory Director for Pittsburgh Musical Theater. He has been performing as Nick Massi in PMT’s production of Jersey Boys, a jukebox musical surrounding the creation and path to fame of the hit band Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. 

Quinn has had a long and healthy relationship with the Pittsburgh theater scene. Quinn has graced many a Pittsburgh stage, from starring as Tiny Tim to his Gene Kelly award-winning roles. “I am a product of Pittsburgh Theater,” he stated. 

As many Four Seasons fans know, their tunes have tight harmonies that need accurate and robust singers to make them shine. Hailing from his days at Point Park, Quinn feels he is more than prepared for his role as one of the bass singers. He chatted for a bit about taking on the part of Nick, “He is the Ringo of the group and one of the original creators. The Four Seasons came along, and they made these harmonies cool.” 

As for Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production, exciting staging and comedic characters await its audience. From center stage with a spinning record player to road cases used as multi-faceted props, the whimsical performance sounds like a treat. “The staging is smartly done, I think it’s great, and it really lets the audience escape.” Of course, for any audience member, this is a goal you hope for with any production you see. 

This production also holds excellent opportunities for some of the younger cast members at Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Quinn excitedly discussed the programs offered to young actors and singers while also discussing the importance of having these opportunities available. “Four of our conservatory students get to learn from professionals, which means more to me than anything.” 

However, the true magic of this performance sounds as though it will come from the characters themselves. “They’re everyone,” Quinn stated. From dealing with an onslaught of personal issues to navigating the challenges of stardom, this cast will surely take you on a whirlwind ride. “At the end of the day, these are four small-town, blue-collar guys who just loved to sing and harmonize under a street lamp.” 

PMT’s production of Jersey Boys has performances at the Byham Theater in the Cultural District through May 14th. For more information and tickets, visit: https://pmt.culturaldistrict.org/production/83512/jersey-boys

Categories: Reviews, Show Previews

Tags: Adam Marrino, Brecken Newton Farrell, Jersey Boys, Pittsburgh Musical Theater, Quinn Patrick Shannon, Tommy DeVito