The Who's Tommy heading to Epsom (From Wimbledon Guardian)

The Who's Tommy heading to Epsom

11:45am Thursday 15th October 2009

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The Who’s lavish musical favourite Tommy gets a welcome Surrey revival this week when the Epsom Players bring the colourful classic to the Epsom Playhouse.

Detailing the antics of the titular character, a young deaf, dumb and blind boy who ends up the head of a messianic movement, the musical emerged from the 1969 album of the same name by the legendary British rockers.

And for director Damien De Roche, there are a multitude of reasons for taking on the notoriously difficult project.

He explains: “First and foremost it is not a musical that is put on that often, as it is very difficult to stage.

“But we are always looking to produce something really ambitious, and with We Will Rock You last year we proved we could put on a really good musical.

“I knew that the people I have at my disposal would be good enough to pull it off, and it is nice to marry up the production with the fact that it is the 40th anniversary of the album’s release this year.”

Despite being a massive hit on Broadway in the early 90s, Tommy is still probably best known for Ken Russell’s overblown and over the top 1975 film version, which starred among others, Tina Turner and Elton John.

But De Roche reveals the stage variation adopts a different approach.

He adds: “I think the film could work against us as people have seen that and will come along thinking that is what to expect.

“But Ken Russell is well known for his excesses, and his image was quite different from the original album.

“I think the musical is much more real than that and certainly far more approachable as you can relate to the characters a little bit more.”

De Roche has linked up with the Epsom Players for the past seven years, along with commitments to other groups in the area.

But this will be the first project he has directed, and he admits to his fair share of nerves.

He revealed: “Yes I am nervous but I am also tremendously excited.

“It has been the biggest challenge for a director due to the sheer enormity of the show - it really is that tough.

“But rehearsals have gone well and now it is about applying the final polish.

“All I can say is come along as it will be a thoroughly entertaining night out.”

Tommy, Epsom Playhouse, October 27-31, 7.30pm, from £12, 01372 742555, epsomplayhouse.co.u k

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