If Bobby Darin were still alive, he’d probably be headlining Madison Square Garden, hosting SNL and launching a skincare line called Splish Splash.
Since he’s not still crooning, thank heavens we have Bobby Darin, Just in Time, on Broadway to remind us why the man, the myth, the music legend still swings so hard.
From the first note to the last bow, this show hums with the kinetic charm of a performer who knew time was never on his side, using every minute to prove he belonged with Sinatra, not in his shadow.
Jonathan Groff who is beyond sensational at playing Darin, does not imitate, he channels. He brings a drive to the stage that’s less tribute act and more possessed by the ghost of swagger past.
This Bobby isn’t just in time, he’s on time, in time and making sure your time is well spent.
Groff has to be seen up close and personal. He has an incredible voice, he can dance with the best of them, he has charm and charisma, good looks and great hair, he is spontaneous and a joy to witness.
The sets are brilliant and the night club ambiance is intoxicating along with the tight production and creative direction, Just In Time hums along. The first act is perfection.
I am a huge Jonathan Groff fan. I have seen him perform on Broadway in his debut appearance in Spring Awakening, followed by a hilarious role as King George in Hamilton, a fabulous award winning part in Merrily We Roll Along and a dynamic performance in Little Shop Of Horrors…and now, Just In Time.
Musically, Just in Time is a love letter to Darin’s eclectic catalog from the 1950s and 60s, abounding with torch songs, swing standards and a little rock ‘n’ roll rebellion thrown in for good measure.
The band was tight, the harmonies tighter and judging by the toe-tapping women in the Mother’s Day matinee crowd, the joy was contagious. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a room full of brunch-fueled moms shimmy in their seats to Beyond the Sea.
Beneath the charm and velvet tux lies a thread of real emotion showcasing his relationship with Connie Francis and marriage to teen movie star, Sandra Dee.
Darin, a sickly kid from the Bronx, told he wouldn’t live past 16, clawed his way to the top with raw talent and relentless ambition.
If you need a reminder that passion, grit and a good pair of shoes can still take you places, Just in Time delivers.
Final verdict…If Bobby Darin was too much talent in one man, this show is almost too much joy for one stage thanks to Geoff’s dynamic performance.
Go see Jonathan Groff. Bring your memories or do a deep Darin musical dive before you go.
Do not expect to leave Just In Time without joining the effusive standing ovation and then singing Mack the Knife all the way home.
- Venue: Circle in the Square Theatre
- Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including intermission.
- First Performance: March 31, 2025.
- Last Performance: November 30, 2025.
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What fun!! I’m such a huge fan of Jonathan Groff!!!
You must see it! It is so your kind of show. Come to NYC after KC!
BTW, enjoy the road trip and I am sure you will slay in KC!💜👏🏻
Is ithe show coming to Australia? And another important question – is Groff coming to Australia?
Thanks for a beautifully-written and inspiring review, Toby.
Thank you! I have not read about the show touring. I know it runs until November 30th on Broadway. I hope it does. He is a marvel. The first act is incredible.
Hope all is well with you!
It has been a year and it is only May! I call it the 3 F year…Fire (our home in Pacific Palisades, California), Fracture (David fell down the subway stairs and fractured his back) and Fu.ked with our Orange administration!
Love your comments💜