October 31, 2010

Reflections from JB National Tour’s John Michael Dias

October 31st, 2010

John Michael Dias
John Michael Dias (Photo Credit: Joan Marcus)

Rita Charleston has a great interview with JERSEY BOYS national tour’s Frankie Valli alternate–John Michael Dias! Here’s a preview:

But he will tell you that, despite the many challenges, his current role might be his favorite.

“There is so much to retain in this show,” he pointed out. “There are twenty-seven songs to memorize, handle all the scenes and the emotional baggage that comes along with the show. It’s really an incredible thing to wrap your mind around.”

Dias had just turned 26 when he took over the role of Valli in the Chicago production.

“I think I’ve grown a lot since I first started. I think I’m much better able to handle it all now,” he said.

He also has to handle the changes in characters he has to work with.

“I like learning from all the people in the show that I’m on stage with,” he said. “I’ve had five Bob Gaudios, three or four Tommys, three Nicks. You have to be able to use what they give you because it’s different from day to day. And that’s what makes the theater so fantastic. Once you’re out there in front of the audience, you can’t take it back. It’s there and you have to roll with it and make it work, and tell the story to the best of your ability.”

Visit Philly.com to read the entire interview.

3 Comments »

  1. Saw mike Dias as Frankie Valli last night in Philadelphia, he was great. My wife and I loved the show.

    Comment by Sheldon — November 1, 2010 @ 12:25 pm

  2. Can’t say enough about John Michael. He’s so talented and such a kind person. Chicago was lucky to have him for the duration of the show here. Glad I still get to see him with the Tour.

    Comment by Rose — November 1, 2010 @ 1:22 pm

  3. Just saw JMD in the show today in Philadelphia – he was so fantastic!! I’m now a big fan :-) In my mind, when he was waving to the audience, he was really waving at me!!

    Comment by Denise — December 5, 2010 @ 11:26 pm

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