The Who’s Tommy was first released in May of 1969. The film version starring Roger Daltrey was released in 1975. The Broadway debut was in March of 1993. It was nominated for the Best Musical Tony. The Paramount Theatre in Aurora produced the musical in January of 2015. And now, in June of 2023, it opens at the Goodman Theatre.

Tommy’s father goes missing in action in the war while his mother is pregnant. Tommy is born and his mother meets a new man. His father is then rescued and returns home. The new man attacks and the father shoots him to death. Tommy witnesses this and goes deaf and blind. They see many doctors, but none of them can help. One day he discovers pinball and he quickly becomes a master.

This production is absolutely world class. It is Broadway and Tony Award worthy. All of the elements are at such a high level.

The set design by David Korins is incredibly impressive. It’s a very futurist look with lighted doors and mirrors. The lighting design by Amnada Zieve and the projection design by Peter Nigrini adds up to an incredibly amazing visual spectacle.

The cast is absolutely fantastic. Ali Louis Bourzgui (Layalina) shines as Tommy. Alison Luff is fantastic as the mother. Adam Jacobs (Aladdin) is superb as the father. John Ambrosino is great in the tough role of Uncle Ernie. Bobby Conte is steller as Cousin Kevin.

Also, the band is top notch. “Pinball Wizard” will be in ringing in the audience’s head for days.

Cost of a ticket: $145 (Main Floor)

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Half Price > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Get tickets now for The Who’s Tommy through August 6^th!

For other rock operas, check out The Hazards of Love by the Decemberists, The Wall by Pink Floyd, and 2112 by Rush.

Quinn Delaney