Review: 'The Who's Tommy' by Warner Stage Company

“See me, feel me, touch me, heal me…”

Torrington, CT - ‘The Who’s Tommy’ is a rock musical based upon the 1969 rock concept album ‘Tommy.’ that blasts through the story of the boy that is struck deaf, dumb and blind after a traumatic experience as a young child and goes on to become a pinball superstar. The music of The Who punctuates both the trauma and the healing that Tommy experiences and takes the audience on a sensational journey. Sharon A. Wilcox directed and choreographed the spectacular production that opened to a crowded house on the main stage of Torrington’s Warner Theatre on Saturday night and runs through Feb. 12.

This actually marks the second time that Ms. Wilcox has had the opportunity to direct this musical that she first saw on Broadway, and the second time that the dedicated Dan Ringuette served as the music director. I did not get to experience that first production, but this season’s version is a powerful, non-stop sensation that we see, hear and feel. If the story is a little bizarre, the music of Pete Townshend is the driving force that makes this a truly modern rock opera and the opening night audience loved every minute.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE REVIEW ON ONSTAGE
Peter Bard (Joey Primo in 'Rock of Ages') began as the young Cousin Kevin that bullies Tommy and then as an adult took the lead of his cousin's security detail; this talented actor pulled it off. He appeared on the Warner stage with his new wife Nicole Thomas Bard, who danced in the ensemble and appeared as a nurse.

This production of what I think is a great show is impressive in every way and quite the immersive experience. Fans of The Who and classic rock in general can’t help but get swept up in the relentless music that only pauses for a bit of dialogue. Congratulations to Ms. Wilcox and the entire cast and crew on another blockbuster production at the Warner that is destined to become one of my top ten for the year.

Nancy Sasso Janis is a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle and continues to contribute theatre news to local Patch sites. Check out her Facebook Page ‘Connecticut Theater Previews’ and follow her on Twitter @nancysjanis417.

Mandi Martini ©2017 The Warner Theatre