The talented John Lloyd Young is a celebrated singer and Tony Award-winning actor, known for his iconic portrayal of Frankie Valli in the musical “Jersey Boys.” In this interview, we dive into his upcoming show at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on June 29, his experiences on the East End, and the significant moments that have shaped his career.
What can the audience expect from your upcoming performance at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center?
My unique introduction to audiences as a singer happened by playing another singer, Frankie Valli. Everyone knows Mr. Valli has an incredible range. After my initial success with “Jersey Boys,” I learned pretty quickly, if you can sing Frankie Valli, you can sing anything! So for all these years since, I’ve been singing concerts around the world, interpreting my own favorite classics from the Four Seasons’ era: songs made famous by the likes of Roy Orbison, Little Anthony, The Platters, Al Wilson, and of course, The Four Seasons. Full-throated, emotional, totally live singing peppered through with behind-the-scenes stories from “Jersey Boys” on Broadway and the Hollywood film directed by Clint Eastwood.
Have you spent time on the East End before? What are you most looking forward to?
Yes! Over the years, I’ve visited just to enjoy the lazy days of summer, and I’ve made appearances at Guild Hall and the Bay Street Theater. As always, since Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center is a new venue for me, my greatest thrill is meeting a brand-new audience, or maybe reacquainting myself with people who have until now only ever seen me in “Jersey Boys.”
Is there a performance or role in your career that has had a lasting impact on you personally or professionally?
My first big break in terms of getting known to the New York casting directors who discovered me for “Jersey Boys,” was playing Danny Saunders in a dramatic adaptation of “The Chosen,” opposite Theodore Bikel. He was the first truly established theatre legend I had worked with, and his encouragement and friendship gave me my first signal that maybe, perhaps, I belonged and had a future in the business. I’ve never forgotten him.
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
I play New York’s Cafe Carlyle every season. I just debuted a brand-new set of emotional classics this past April — very David Lynchian. I’m beefing it up with a full band for a week at 54 Below in the theatre district, October 21 to 25. Can’t wait!