Return of the Quad Squad
Alexandra McKenzie, Sunday Sun
AN EXCITING stage adaptation of The Who’s best-known rock opera albums is coming to the region this summer.
Tom Critchley is directing the stage version of Pete Townshend’s Quadrophenia, on at Sunderland Empire from July 9.
Rolling Stone magazine and VH1 have named Quadrophenia one of the 100 greatest albums of all time.
The album was released by The Who in 1973 and was followed by the iconic film in 1979 which starred Sting and Ray Winstone.
The film has since come to be viewed as a snapshot of one of the most culturally influential periods in history in a Britain which was rife with change . . . the effects of which remain visible in fashion and music today.
Townshend is excited about this theatrical venture. He said: "I hope for a grand and chaotic explosion of music and chorus that revives the memories of being young in the Sixties.’’
With The Who’s rock music providing a soundtrack to Sixties Britain in all its finery, the production promises to be the explosion that Townshend anticipates.
Quadrophenia is told through the eyes of protagonist Jimmy.
Four young actors will play the teenager and Sydney Rae White will play "The Girl" – Leslie Ash’s character in the original film – supported by a cast that has been handpicked at nationwide auditions.
With their love story set against the Brighton riots and trendy Mods clashing with their Rocker rivals, the play is packed with contrasts which capture a changing Britain and Jimmy’s journey as he grapples with feeling misunderstood.
:: Quadrophenia is at Sunderland Empire from July 9 to 11. For tickets, call 0844-847 2499 or visit the website at www.sunderlandempire.org.uk
