We discover the Hollywood style secrets Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner backstage at an iconic Birmingham show

The Rep Theatre here on Centenary Square has staged countless iconic productions over the years. Recent weeks have seen this prestigious venue premiere a show that is set to take the world by storm. I’m here to find out what audiences can expect.

Samantha Lyster, Communications Manager for the Birmingham Rep, says: “Sinatra musical has come to Birmingham as a world premiere. We’re thrilled that we were chosen to stage this production. It is Broadway level Theatre in this city.

“And it is based on the early years and career of Frank Sinatra, a very iconic singer and arcs from his early days when he met his first wife, Nancy Sinatra through to when he met his second wife, Ava Gardner, who at the time was a huge movie star. And the production is lavish. It is one of the most beautiful productions we have had here, and the costumes are very integral to telling this story.”

“Sinatra the Musical,” now gracing the stage at The Rep theatre in Centenary Square has so far met critical acclaim. It invites audiences to delve into the turbulent life story of one of music’s brightest luminaries and in the ambience of a bygone era in which it was set.

“Jon Morrell, the production’s esteemed costume designer, has a critical role in creating this visually arresting aesthetic. His costumes do not merely offer authenticity to the spectacle, but also help the performers connect more deeply with their character portrayals.

Lyndsay Atherton, Dance Captain and Swing, says: “Honestly, when you put this dress on, it just makes you stand differently. It allows you to walk out on stage as elegant as you like. It totally changes your physicality when you wear it.”

So far, the production has been showered with commendations from audiences captivated by the tale of Sinatra’s humble infancy as a working-class American Italian in Hoboken. A fervent ensemble breathes life into this epic narrative of adversity and subsequent success. While Sinatra’s iconic music inevitably shines as the star of the show, the performance guarantees a memorable night for all, regardless of their familiarity with Frank Sinatra’s illustrious discography.