JERSEY Boys is one of those shows you feel you have to see.

The smash hit musical, winner of nearly 60 major awards worldwide, has had audiences in raptures since its Broadway debut in 2005.

Crowds are flocking to see it at the Alhambra, where it has opened for a two-week run.

It’s the story of four working-class boys who formed a band, invented their own catchy sound and, as the Four Seasons, sold 175 million records, becoming one of the most successful bands in pop music history.

Does it live up to the hype? It sure does. It’s a hugely entertaining journey through the band’s highs and lows, from their days as smalltime rogues on the streets of New Jersey, no strangers to the neighbourhood cops, to their rise as major players on the 1960s and 70s music scene. Along the way we’re treated to hit after hit – Sherry, Walk Like a Man, Big Girls Don’t Cry, December 1963 (Oh What a Night), Beggin’, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and Stay among many others – reminding us of the remarkable legacy of the Four Seasons.

This is no frothy jukebox musical – it pulls no punches in depicting the reality of life on the wrong side of the tracks and tensions within the band. Four terrific performances lie at the heart the show. Michael Watson is a gem as Frankie Valli, the Italian-American kid with the extraordinary voice who struggles as a flawed family man. There were cheers throughout for Michael’s fabulous delivery of the songs, and he shone in quieter moments too. His performance of My Eyes Adored You, as his marriage crumbles, was particularly touching.

Simon Bailey was excellent as Tommy Devito, founder of the band, whose mounting debts put them at the mercy of the Mob. It’s credit to Bailey’s layered performance that I found Tommy quite endearing; despite his swagger, he becomes a little lost as Valli and songwriter Bob Gaudio take more control, forging a partnership made on a handshake.

Strong performances too from Declan Egan as Gaudio and Lewis Griffiths as Nick Massi.

With a vibrant pop art set, this is a cracking show with warmth, quickfire humour, haunting poignancy – and fabulous, timeless songs.

* Runs until June 2.