The rock musical “Tommy” is not the only album by The Who that has been turned into a theatrical work.
The 1973 album “Quadrophenia” was turned into a film in 1979 and now it is being turned into a Rock Ballet with performances set in November.
Speaking on the album, The Who’s Pete Townsend said, “’Quadrophenia’ is the only Who album that I solely composed and produced, and the movie that followed in 1979 launched the careers of some of the finest young actors of the time. In 2016 Rachel Fuller agreed to create an orchestral score of the album. When I first heard a demo of this version, without vocals, my first thought was that it would make a powerfully rhythmic and emotionally engaging ballet.”
It is Fuller’s orchestral arrangement that was recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra that will be the background for the upcoming Rock Ballet which is being directed by Rob Ashford with choreography from Paul Roberts.
Paris Fitzpatrick will take on the lead role of Jimmy.
The production recently sold out during its UK tour earlier this year.
In an extremely limited run, “Quadrophenia” is set for performances November 14-16 at the New York City Center.
“Quadrophenia” tells the story of Jimmy – a working class London member of the 1950’s modernist subculture and his struggles with “dead-end jobs, substance abuse, conflict with his parents, and a search for belonging.”
Tickets go on sale to the general public beginning September 4. Ticket prices for the four performances are $45 including the fees.