Erich Bergen - Cry For Me from Jersey Boys - a tribute to Joe Siravo

As an actor, whenever I start work on a new project, there’s that moment when you realize “oh, this is a real thing.” You’re convinced that you somehow fooled everyone into thinking you know what you’re doing, and then that moment happens and you realize, oh shit, now I actually have to do it. When I started the National Tour of Jersey Boys, that moment came when I met Joseph Siravo. Yes, being a part of such a project was daunting all by itself, but the thing that made me realize I had to step up my game was when I found myself working alongside Joe Siravo. His resume read like a manual for “how to get cast in Jersey Boys” and when he said his lines, you weren’t totally convinced that he was actually an actor. His Gyp DeCarlo, as early as the first table read, was scary. Joe had clearly met a few “Gyps” in his lifetime and knew how to make him come alive on stage. It was there from day one. I clearly remember the feeling after seeing Joe work for the first time that I was now working with “real” actors.
As it turned out, he was anything but scary. He was the nicest man, full of great advice, always up for an adventure, and very, very grateful to be working in the business that he loved.
About 3 years ago, I ran into Joe on the subway after not seeing him in years. He looked different. He looked a little weak, a little pale and a little tired. Gyp was gone. His smile, however, was still there and just as big and honest as ever. We ended up riding the subway home together for about 25 minutes. He told me of his cancer battle, and I told him of mine. As dark as the subject was, somehow, we still managed to laugh our way through the dark material. I’m very thankful I got to spend that brief but meaningful time with him.
Passion ran through every vein in his body, and was so very evident in his work, but it was never more evident than when he spoke of his daughter, Allegra. I send all my love to her and Joe’s family.
When I think of Joe, I will forever think of Jersey Boys, and vice versa. And while I’m sure Joe would probably prefer an aria to be sung in his memory, what I can offer is 4 guys who were very, very glad that they got to meet Joe Siravo in their lifetime. On behalf of Eric Gutman, Jarrod Spector, Michael Ingersoll, and myself…
We love you, Joseph Siravo.
Thank you for the incredible memories.