Tommy

Tommy is a powerful musical, based on The Who’s rock opera of the 60’s, and translated to the stage. It is a challenging piece of theatre which Barry McKay successfully brought to life. Tessa Whiting ensured that the rock music was exciting and compelling. She was fortunate in having a talented musical cast. All of the company had key singing roles which were performed well. There were some excellent harmonies. This musical has many varied scenes.  These were minimal but imaginatively set and the many scene changes were slick so that the pace was good. Lighting too was used to enhance the action.  Scene changing was achieved efficiently and smoothly. Movement and action on stage was effectively set, the cast moved confidently and purposefully. This polished presentation was a feature of the whole production

The early life of Tommy is shown in an episodic manner. The company in these early scenes sang well and set the standard for the remainder of the musical..

This was a strong cast. Simon Jackson was excellent in the lead role of Tommy. He sang  very well and moved with confidence. Simon was utterly believable in this role, he commanded the stage. Natalie Soroko and Scott McCarthy were very well cast as the parents.. Both had excellent voices and harmonised well. These were two very convincing performances, demonstrating a wide emotional range in an expressive manner. Mark Robbins was first rate as the vicious and unpredictable Kevin.  This was an appropriately dark and threatening performance which was extremely effective. Amanda Seal in a brief but tremendous performance as Acid Queen was outstanding.  Her voice and presence on the stage captured the character completely. Charles Mills as Uncle Ernie was perfectly cast. Charles is an experienced actor who not only perfectly brought out the sordid nature of the character but delivered his song and dance routine brilliantly. The young Tommys were played by Lauren McKay and Alex Whiting. Both were able to capture the innocence and vulnerability of Tommy.

This was a well directed piece of theatre with a talented cast who, whether in major or minor roles, performed proficiently and with assurance. The musical talent of the company was one of the strengths of this production. This was a fast moving and exciting performance. One criticism I have  is that the speedy pace of the piece gave the audience no opportunity to applaud the musical numbers which were well deserving of much applause.

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