88 minutes of non-stop rock n’ roll
Rainbow Bracey
Assistant Spectrum Editor
Fans of The Who or rock musical lovers will get to experience a classic rock opera when Theatre VCU presents “The Who’s Tommy” at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts April 8 at 7:30 p.m.
This 1969 groundbreaking musical is considered the first rock opera. It opened the door for musicals inspired by specific artists and their albums such as “Moving Out,” based on the music of Bill Joel.
Director Barry Bell described some of the inherent differences between rock opera and the traditional musical. “Tommy” will include sixteen television monitors and a large screen with live media feeds. There is no book, and very few lines—just small transitions into more music. Bell sees the show as “cross between a rock concert and musical.”
The in-house band made up of local musicians and eight background singers add to the concert effect of the show. Bell’s experience with The Who began in college.
“I was in college when the album came out and it was a ‘big deal,’ ” Bell said.
He credits the musicians, technical crews and actors for driving the show. This show is not just for the VCU community but for anyone who would enjoy “88 minutes of non-stop rock and roll,” Bell said.
Ticket prices are $25 for general admission, seniors; VCU faculty and staff $20; VCU students with valid ID $10; other students with valid ID – $15; groups of 20 or more $15 per person; and can be purchased at the Hodges Theatre Box Office, W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, or reserved by calling 828-6026 or by emailing theatretix@vcu.edu.
