The sensation that is "Tommy," at Blackfriars Theatre has Rochester audiences giving standing ovations, and is being extended for four more shows, May 15, 19, 20, and 21.
Tickets flew out of the box office as word got out that The Who's "Tommy," is indeed the musical sensation of the 2010-2011 Rochester theatre season, selling out its entire run. Eric Rezsnyak of City News is effuse in his praise:
"vibrant and inventive sets and costumes that raise the bar for local theater,.. "Director Jack Haldoupis never lets the show slow down for a second - there's barely even time for applause,"
"No hyperbole here: I have never seen theater projections used as thoughtfully and inventively as they are used in "Tommy."
"The show sounds amazing, too, thanks to the band featuring conductor-keyboardist Andy Pratt, guitarists Vinnie Ruggiero and Simon Fletcher, bassist Dave Ellison, and drummer Aaron Staebell. They shred through the songs, and personally I prefer this band and cast's energetic version of "Pinball Wizard" to the original."
"The "Tommy" cast is filled with excellent local actors and singers, all of whom acquit themselves well. It is an undeniable star turn for Dan Howell, who plays adult Tommy. I've seen Howell in supporting roles in several Blackfriars shows, but he rises to the challenge of a demanding lead role, commanding the stage, singing strongly, and setting the tone for the production,....."Janine Mercandetti and J. Simmons play Tommy's parents...they absolutely cooked on the duet "I Believe My Own Eyes" and in Mercandetti's solo, "Smash the Mirror.""
Show dates and times for this extension are:
Sunday, May 15 at 2pm, Thursday, May 19 at 7:30 pm, Friday, May 20 at 8 pm, and Saturday, May 21 at 8 pm.
Ticket prices are as follows:
$25.00 Adult/$23.00 Senior/$15 Student - Thursdays/Fridays
$27.00 Adult/$25.00 Senior/$17 Student - Saturday
Blackfriars Theatre is located at 795 East Main Street, Just a few doors down from the Auditorium Theatre. There is parking available on site, and handicapped seating is available.
MasterCard, Visa, and Discover are available at no additional charge.
For information and reservations, please call 454-1260. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.bftix.com If available, tickets can be purchased at the door beginning one-hour prior to performance. Box Office hours are Monday thru Friday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturdays, noon to 4:00 pm.
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