Theatre News

Exclusive: Full cast of Tommy to include Peter Straker

The actor starred in the original West End production of ”Tommy” in 1979

Peter Straker and Garry Robson, who will both star in Tommy
Peter Straker and Garry Robson, who will both star in Tommy
(© Peter Straker picture: Dan Wooller)

The full cast has been announced for the upcoming Ramps on the Moon production of Tommy.

Peter Straker returns to the show over 30 years after he starred as the Narrator in the original West End production. In this new production, part of the Ramps on the Moon project which brings together seven theatre companies committed to putting Deaf and disabled artists and audiences at the centre of their work, Straker will play the Acid Queen.

Straker is joined on stage by both Deaf and disabled and non-disabled actors including Lukus Alexander (Cousin Kevin), Alim Jayda (The Lover), Donna Mullings (Mrs Walker), Garry Robson (Uncle Ernie), Max Runham (Captain Walker), Amy Trigg (Sally Simpson) an ensemble of 14 actors and musicians. William Grint plays the title role in the piece, which is based on the original concept album by rock band The Who and Pete Townshend.

Artistic director of Theatre Royal Stratford East Kerry Michael directs the piece, which features songs by The Who. The concept album was made into a film in 1972 directed by Ken Russell. The story follows a young man Tommy who, despite descending into a catatonic state, becomes a pinball champion.

Tommy opens at New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich on 30 March and runs to 15 April. The show then tours to Nottingham Playhouse, West Yorkshire Playhouse, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Theatre Royal Stratford East and Sheffield Crucible.