Jersey Boys join Ingersoll for Metropolis shows

For the first time since their smash hit opened in Chicago, the Jersey Boys will perform an entire set together - away from the Bank of America Theatre.

They will join co-star Michael Ingersoll in his show, "Steppin' Out," at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 10 and 24 at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights.

Last season, Ingersoll performed his cabaret-styled show to five sold out audiences at Metropolis, and at each one, the Jersey Boys made a surprise appearance near the end to sing a few du-wop numbers.

Now, with the blessing of the show's producers, the Jersey Boys - Michael Cunio who plays Frankie Valli, and John Michael Dias and Shonn Wiley --- will join Ingersoll for the entire second act.

"This is a real testament to our friendship," says Ingersoll. "Even after doing eight shows a week together, we still enjoy being together and making music."

Giving the shows an even greater Jersey Boys spin will be members of its pit orchestra, including its horn section, providing the music.

"It's a little bit of Rat Pack-Sinatra styled songs, modern pop, Johnny Cash and blue grass, and even folk," says Ingersoll, a Dayton, Ohio native. "It's an eclectic mix that will appeal to a broad audience."

Ingersoll's wife, Angela, will join him for some numbers, too. The couple was starring in the comedy, "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change," at Metropolis 21/2 years ago, when Ingersoll got the call to begin rehearsals for "Jersey Boys."

Metropolis officials are thrilled.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," says Jim Jarvis, executive director, "and you can't get it anywhere else besides Arlington Heights and Metropolis."

Ingersoll and the other Seasons say that after more than 700 shows of singing backup to Frankie Valli, they need to break out once in a while and sing the lead.

"I needed something to challenge myself," Ingersoll says. "I needed to get my musical chops back."

For ticket information, visit: www.metropolisarts.com.