The Who's Tommy

Maybe you need to be of a certain age... ‘my generation’… to really appreciate this evocative ‘Rock Opera’ by The Who. Music to stir the memories for those who were there in the 60s and 70s and hopefully a new experience for the ‘new generation’ of fans! That said I’m a child of the 80s who loved Tommy when I saw it in the West End and would give my right arm to see The Who perform live. How lucky to be given this treat by Theatrecraft.

From the outset it was obvious that we had a small but very talented band that certainly relished the challenge of a musical score that was constant throughout and demanded a performance against which the audience would judge and compare. Believe me they were up to the challenge and deserve to share the accolades for the success of this show. Most audience members stayed to applaud the music as the band played us out!

There were cast members old and new, of all ages and experience, from Harley Martin (Tommy aged 4), who stoically made the first scenes, those of the cause of Tommy’s trauma, so believable. Then William Jones (Tommy aged 10) took over, equally believable and able to convey the ongoing depth of his affliction in the face of determined abuse and bullying with not a hint of cracking a smile. These two were of course early stars and their inner thoughts were conveyed by Oliver Jones (‘big’ Tommy) who showed great vocals and interpretation as he gradually moved into the teenage Tommy role where his voice gave vent to some of the truly moving and memorable songs which make this show an iconic piece of musical theatre. He portrayed that vulnerability and eventual salvation to great effect! All three, stars in the making!

The ‘dark’ and perhaps controversial story line was cleverly depicted throughout from a superb World War Two opening sequence (I especially loved the planes taking flight) and miming sequences throughout.  The entire company was fully invested and there were some clever touches with both set and costume changes. Theatrecraft needed to put aside an element of audience distaste for the controversial story line, more topical now than ever before! They trusted the passion and enthusiasm of their director Andrew Cozens and it paid off! There were just two or three moments when I would have liked the more controversial material to have been played a little less “safe”.

Right from the onset Ewan Stanley had a great presence as Captain Walker and worked well with Sian Webb as Mrs Walker. They were well-matched and showed excellent vocal control and harmony with totally believable characterizations throughout.  Sian really came alive during the number Smash the Mirror.

Nick Waller played the drunken antics of Uncle Ernie with a well-controlled demeanour. He grew into the character as the performance went on really coming into his own as the barker on Tommy’s touring show. Charlie Waller gave a first class performance as Cousin Kevin. His interpretation of the role was outstanding. He played the part with great feeling showing a real depth of character. Lily Webb gave a most accomplished performance as Sally Simpson. I look forward to watching her in future shows.

The ensemble was strong with creative choreography and excellent harmony singing throughout. Cameo roles were also strong and well delivered with too many to mention individually but each one can be assured that they were all appropriately acted and all added to the overall quality of the show.

Costumes were generally of the era and appropriate; the military uniforms were particularly authentic. Projected settings worked well throughout and the set would have happily been a backdrop to a Who concert.

My only criticism of the night was the balance of the sound. Although the show is a rock opera it was so loud that it caused issues with feedback and at times made some of the diction a little difficult to interpret.  This particular venue doesn’t require a booming amplification.

So overall this was a superb production of a tricky show which myself (and the audience alike) thoroughly enjoyed. Many congratulations. I look forward to your next offering.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.