Theater Thursday - Just in Time

We were given complimentary tickets to Just in Time for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

What: Just in Time

Where: Circle in the Square Theatre 

             1633 Broadway

              New York, NY

Who: Recommended for Ages 10 and Up

When: Through November 30, 2025

Me - Just in Time was a really fun show. It's about the late singer, Bobby Darin. The show has a very unique beginning with the lead, Jonathan Groff, introducing the story as himself before taking his place as Bobby Darin. He was amazing in the role. Along with great vocals, he also had such charisma. I don't know if I've ever witnessed an actor in a Broadway show who so clearly seemed to be having a great time, and it ensured that the audience was having just as much fun along with him. 

Gracie Lawrence and Erika Henningsen were also incredibly talented in their roles as Connie Francis and Sandra Dee, respectively. Gracie Lawrence has a voice like I've never heard before. Although Erika Henningsein has been great in other roles, she takes it to a new level in this show. 

I didn't know anything about Bobby Darin before seeing this production, so I wasn't sure if I would connect with it. However, I ended up having a great time. Whether you're a fan of Bobby Darin or any of the cast members, or if you're just looking for an emotional yet lighthearted musical, I would recommend this show. 

From the moment he pops onto the stage as himself, and even before he ever so smoothly transitions into the role of late actor, singer, songwriter, Bobby Darin, Jonathan Groff has the audience in the palm of his hand. His performance bubbles over with charm and charisma, especially when he's singing.  Although his acting is terrific, the singing really elevates his performance. It is not so much the sound or quality of his voice, which is fine, but the way he puts over the songs. They fit him like a glove, almost like he was meant to sing these songs. 

Groff is capably joined by a fine supporting cast headed by Gracie Lawrence, Erika Henningsen, and Michele Pawk. Lawrence is neither new to singing nor performing. She is new, however, to the musical stage, and quite a welcome addition. She has a lovely voice and is sweet and appealing in the role of Connie Francis.  Henningsen, who previously gave a terrific performance in the lead role of Kady in Mean Girls, sounds even better here than she did there. She is at her absolute peak. Pawk plays Darin's supportive mother. She makes it quite clear where Darin got his talent and charm from as she demonstrates plenty of her own.

The songs are a nostalgia trip for some and new to others. Most people are likely to recognize at least one or two. They include "Mack the Knife," which first appeared in the musical The Threepenny Opera, but Darin really made his own, and "Somewhere Beyond the Sea" among others. The dancing is effervescent and joyful. Even with its sad ending, this is not really a spoiler; it's a known fact that Bobby Darin died young, this show is just a complete delight. 

And that's our view. For more about Just in Time or to purchase tickets, go to justintimebroadway.com

Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.

Photo credits: 

All Just in Time production photos by Matthew Murpy and Evan Zimmerman

Images used in this post have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image,  contact us here, and we will look into the matter.