Goodman Theatre’s maximalist revival of ‘The Who’s Tommy’ catapults its star into the spotlight
The Who’s Tommy at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre delivers lyrical glitter bombs matched by soaring vocals, guitar riffs, and a visual spectacle that will appeal to aging rockers and theater fans.
In 1992, The Who’s Pete Townshend collaborated with director Des McAnuff to turn Tommy — the band’s groundbreaking 1969 concept album about a traumatized prodigy turned reluctant guru — into a stage musical.
The result was a hit at San Diego‘s La Jolla Playhouse and subsequently on Broadway. Far from the onslaught of cheesy jukebox musicals to overtake Broadway, new Goodman Theatre Artistic Director Susan V.
Booth describes the production as “a wall of sound,” redefining what musical theater can be. McAnuff, who also co-wrote the show’s book, returns to direct the musical at the Goodman, marking its 30th anniversary since its Broadway premiere.The pop singer’s catalog inspires a retelling of some of our favorite princess fairy tales with plenty of hip hop.
