Wed 5/22 @ 7PM
The Who’s 1969 album Tommy may not technically have been the first “rock opera” with a story through-line and interconnected songs, but it was certainly the most thoroughly realized and made the biggest splash, establishing the concept in the public’s mind. The double set sold millions of copies, as it bridges the Who’s early proto-punk rock with its more complex and ambitious music which followed.
It also spawned stage performances, an actual opera performance, a Broadway musical and, of course, the 1975 film, directed by Ken Russell, known for his flamboyant style, and featuring such performers as Ann-Margret, Tina Turner, Elton John, Jack Nicolson and The Who’s lead singer Roger Daltrey. And it was WAY over the top, in a way people either loved or hated.
If you haven’t seen it and want to see which category you fall in, or if you’re in the “love” category and want to see it again, head on down to the Rock and Hall Hall of Fame and Museum where it will screen in the Foster Theatre as part of the Rock Hall’s spring film series.
It’s also a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the original album’s release and the Rock Hall’s current exhibit Part of the Machine: Rock & Pinball. Come early and see if you’re a pinball wizard like Tommy.
Admission is $5.50 for non-members.
rockhall.com/film-series-tommy
1100 Rock and Roll Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44114