Wizard of Aahs

In response to the question posed by Patrick Pacheco’s April 18 story, “Will New York Embrace the Pinball Wizard of La Jolla?”: My answer is yes, based on these observations of the La Jolla production:

There were 110 consecutive standing ovations. Magnificent reviews. One staff member told me that he had worked in the theater 15 years in this country and abroad and had never seen audiences respond like they did for “Tommy.” Even though I am a member of the older set that makes up the theatergoing crowd, I found myself getting those chills in my body whenever I hear enrapturing music.

The last night, there were many in the audience who had seen the play more than once; they began applauding when the finale began and did not stop till long after the curtain calls. There was a roar of whoofs, shouts and bravos after the last note, some from the rock ‘n’ roll generation applauding with hands over head and the older crowd applauding vigorously but more sedately.

This is not your father’s musical.

HOWARD MICKEL

La Jolla