REVIEW: Following Jimmy Valentine - New Musical Audiobook

As an avid Audiobook fan and a lover of musical theatre I was fascinated when approached

to review ‘Following Jimmy Valentine’. This piece by Jeff Flaster is a new audiobook that

blends musical theatre and storytelling, feeling incredibly reminiscent of the radio plays of

the 1920s. The piece is based on ‘A Retrieved Reformation’ by writer O. Henry and follows

Jimmy Valentine, a notorious jewel thief on his journey to a new life. The story asks if human

beings are truly capable of change or if fate determines our stories.

The true star of this show is the cast. Director David Beck has assembled a shining

ensemble of West-End legends including Hadley Fraser, Kerry Ellis, David Hunter, Celinde

Schoenmaker, George Blagden and jazz icon Jacqui Dankworth. I’ve been lucky enough to

see some of these incredible artists performing in the West-End over the years (including

seeing Kerry in We Will Rock You many moons ago!) But being able to plug them straight

into your ears is a special treat for any theatre fan.

Flasters music swings between jazz and classic rock with a few ballads thrown in for good

measure. Music Director/Orchestrator Patrick Stockbridge creates full, beautiful sounds from

his band that hits all the right notes. The soundtrack is beautifully enhanced with real world

sound effects which makes for a very immersive listening experience. Although the script

and storyline never veers from the more light hearted subjects it is enjoyable none the less.

The production itself was excellent, with recording from Steven Kobong creating a crisp and

clear sounds – credit is due to Sarah Golding of Wireless Theatre for creating such a

professional end product.

This is an interesting development for the genre of musical theatre that I truly hope we see

more of! Any theatre fan will love Following Jimmy Valentine and I look forward to seeing

what Jeff Flaster writes next.

To listen to this fantastic new audio book click here