I remember telling my high school drama teacher that I was set to see the original production when it was on tour in the mid-nineties and him responding that “I would learn more about technical theatre in the first twenty minutes of the show than I would in his class the entire year.”  Not only was that true for the original production, but also for the 2009 SJCMT production. The performance blended incredible rock and roll lights (designed by Ethan Hoerneman), innovative use of a moving set (designed by Jim Culley) and, reminiscent of the original production, brilliant use of multimedia screens to help tell the story (designed by Josh Miyaji). 

Anyone who is familiar with The Who’s original album, the stage production, or the even “trippier” motion picture knows that attempting to sum up the plot of this show in a “Cliff’s Note” version is a lost cause... but I will do the best I can.  The focus of the story is a boy named Tommy who, after witnessing a murder by his father while looking in a mirror, loses his function of sight and sound.  After some time passes, Tommy finds himself placed in front of a pinball machine at which it is discovered he is an absolute ‘wizard’.  Tommy’s parents bring him to doctors and specialists who attempt to ‘fix’ him but without reward.  Finally, in a moment of complete frustration, Tommy’s mother smashes the mirror which instantly awakens him from his illness.  Tommy’s talents and story bring him to rock star-like status whose celebrity attracts mobs of teens everywhere he goes.

The role of Tommy is traditionally played by three actors, each at different stages of his life.  Tommy at age 6, played by a charming little actor (Leo Lebedenko), is hard not to watch anytime he is onstage.  Tommy at age 10 (AJ Trapani) and grown up Tommy (Joey Piscane- whose Bono-like vocals also serve as the narrator of the show) bring to life this complicated character in unique ways and provide the audience a fresh new look at the title role.  Captain Walker’s (David Clift) high vocals soared in several key moments of the show (Clift reminded me of a young Robert Spencer who is currently playing the father in the Broadway production of Next to Normal . . .  a role Spencer received a Tony Nomination for and a role that Clift, no doubt, will play at some point in his career.)  Mrs. Walker (Joyah Spangler) had a believable maturity onstage as Tommy’s mother and Sally Simpson (Caroline Citelli) embraced the charming sparkle that makes her character memorable, despite its lack of stage time.  

A number of the most impressive performances came from actors in the ensemble. Officer #1 (Ted Sclavos) had a very strong voice and stage presence that blended wonderfully with his counterpart Officer #2 (Ryan Vasquez).  The Featured Lads (Glenn Delos Santos and Jason Sangalang) and The Featured Lasses (Kylie Brunngraber and Tiffany Tanquary) were energetic storytellers that added tremendous heart to the production, especially Tanquary whose strong dancing and stage presence were fun to watch.  Lastly, ensemble member and featured dancer Davelyn Couch, was an absolute standout with energy, commitment, and enthusiasm reminded this reviewer of Broadway Gypsy Jennifer Cody (currently in Shrek the Musical on Broadway and whose Broadway credits are numerous).  It takes a special performer to stand out amongst a cast of many . . .  ‘kudos to you Davelyn’. 

Performed July 24^th to August 2^nd 2009 

M. Teague Miller
National Youth Theatre