Joel Harper-Jackson’s journey to playing Frank Sinatra in the new musical Sinatra at the Aldwych Theatre is a story of perseverance, transformation, and passion. From his early days in musical theatre to the emotional depths of Daniel’s Husband, Joel has always sought variety and challenge in his work.
Taking on the role of such an iconic figure meant more than just singing famous songs , it required a complete vocal and emotional reinvention. In this candid interview, Joel shares what it was like to prepare for the role, the pressure of stepping into Sinatra’s shoes, and how he balances the demands of the stage with his own wellbeing.
Q: When we last spoke, you were in Daniel’s Husband, which was quite intense. Did you have any idea then that you would soon be stepping into the shoes of Frank Sinatra?
Joel Harper-Jackson: I actually found out about Sinatra two months before starting Daniel’s Husband, so I had time to let it sink in. It was lovely to be working on something, knowing I was going into something else big. I’ve always tried to keep variety in my career, doing plays, TV, musicals, so I was at peace doing a play, knowing a musical was coming next.
Q: That must have been a huge secret to keep. Did you want to tell everyone right away?
Joel: I told my nearest and dearest, a few people, and one cast member from Daniel’s Husband. But I was a bit nervous about telling people because Frank Sinatra is such a legend. I was still training my voice and changing my sound for the role. It took me five months to bring my larynx down and transform my voice. So I wasn’t quite ready to share it widely at first.
Q: How do you decide if a role is right for you beyond just the character or story?
Joel: Variety is key for me. I want to keep people guessing about what I’ll do next. I love serious drama the most, but I also enjoy comedy and different genres. I want to work in every area possible and ultimately do something that scares me. That’s what keeps me excited and working.
Q: Tell me about the audition process for Sinatra.
Joel: I got the audition in late summer. The casting director thought I might be a good fit. I did a self-tape, which was sent to America. They liked it and called me back to meet the producers, including Frank’s daughter, Tina Sinatra. I went all out, blue pinstripe suit, spray tan, slicked hair. The first day was with the director and writer, then the next day I met Tina. Singing Frank’s songs and doing sensitive scenes about his personal life in front of his daughter was intense. But I gave it everything, and Tina stood up crying and said, “You are my father.” That was unforgettable.
Q: How do you balance being true to Frank Sinatra while bringing your own essence to the role?
Joel: They told me they didn’t want a tribute act. They hired me for my spirit, so I had to find the line where Joel ends and Frank begins. Frank was multifaceted, the rough guy, the family man, the legend. It’s impossible to keep everyone happy, so I just do my best and give myself a break if it’s not for everyone.
Q: Were you familiar with Sinatra’s music before this role?
Joel: My introduction was through my granddad, who loved Sinatra. I first saw him in his Vegas days, but I didn’t connect with him then. His music was always around, especially at Christmas, but I never really listened to it deeply. Vocally, it was a challenge because I’m a higher voice and he was a baritone. Training my voice to transform for this role has been fascinating, it’s shown me how adaptable the voice can be.
Q: What was it like stepping onto the stage for the first preview and seeing the audience’s reaction?
Joel: It’s surreal. I made my West End debut at the Old Witch Theatre 12 years ago as a swing understudy. Now, I’m in the number one dressing room singing Frank’s songs eight times a week. It’s intense and exhausting, but I love it. Hearing people say the music means so much to them, that it connects them to their own memories, that’s incredibly rewarding.
Q: How do you protect your mental health while performing such emotionally demanding roles?
Joel: With Daniel’s Husband, the subject was intense, but performing was cathartic, like exercising the demon. I feel lighter after those shows. With Sinatra, there’s a moment in Act One where Frank sings “That’s Life” at his rock bottom. It’s intense, but when I come off stage, I feel like it’s out of me. I also make sure to get lots of sleep, write to clear my head, eat well, avoid too much alcohol, and talk to friends. It’s about balance.
Q: What has the audience been like? Are younger generations discovering Sinatra through the show?
Joel: The audience is really mixed, diehard fans across generations and musical theatre fans discovering Sinatra for the first time. Universal Music shared that the biggest streaming demographic for Sinatra’s music is 25 to 30-year-olds, which is fascinating. His music has such timelessness and depth.
Q: Looking back to a year ago when you faced many near misses with jobs, what would you say to that version of yourself?
Joel: I’d say keep going. Every near miss led me to Sinatra, which trumps them all in exposure, experience, and opportunity. I believe what’s meant for you won’t pass you by. It’s hard in the moment, but trust the process. The knocks make you stronger and prepare you for what’s next. My mum kept telling me, “Something better is coming,” and she was right.
Sinatra is playing at the Aldwych Theatre until April 2027. For tickets and more information, visit sinatramusical.com.