How well do you know *The Who's Tommy*, the groundbreaking rock musical based on The Who's iconic 1969 rock opera? Test your knowledge of the show's fascinating journey from its original Broadway debut in 1993 to its many international productions and recent 2023 revival. Discover key facts, chart-topping songs, and the cultural impact of this legendary show. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the musical, these trivia questions will challenge what you know about *Tommy*.
International Productions
- The musical has seen international performances, including a Canadian production in 1995 and a German run in Offenbach from 1995 to 1996.
- In 1996, a West End production featured pop singer Kim Wilde as Mrs. Walker, highlighting the crossover appeal of the musical.
Musical Composition
- The Who's Tommy is a rock musical with music and lyrics by Pete Townshend, based on The Who's 1969 rock opera titled Tommy.
Notable Tours
- A notable revival of the musical took place at the Stratford Festival of Canada in 2013, directed by Des McAnuff who also directed the original production.
Production Facts
- The musical debuted at La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego on July 1, 1992, before its Broadway opening at the St. James Theatre in 1993.
- The original Broadway production of The Who's Tommy closed in June 1995 after 899 performances.
- The Who's Tommy inspired the creation of a pinball machine named 'The Who's Tommy Pinball Wizard' by Data East.
- The original Broadway cast reunited for a one-night benefit concert in 2008, raising funds for several charitable causes.
- The musical underwent script revisions in a 2023 revival, which included the removal of the song 'Tommy's Holiday Camp' and a rewrite of 'We're Not Gonna Take It'.
- Tommy becomes a pinball champion by 1960, gaining local fame and regarded as a hero among the neighborhood kids.
