SMP Partners returns to the theatre in 2014 as Gold Sponsor of Douglas Choral Union’s production of Tommy, the ‘rock opera’ created by The Who.
The company’s support includes sponsoring the Tommy Band, the rock musicians who will perform all the music during performances at the Gaiety Theatre.
SMP, one of the Island’s leading providers of corporate and trust services, fund administration and accounting and tax, is a longstanding supporter of the performing arts, sponsoring such Gaiety productions as The Wizard of Oz, Miss Saigon, Evita, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and, most recently, CATS.
The company joins headline sponsor Dougherty Quinn in supporting the production of Tommy.
Managing Director Mark Denton said: “Over several years of supporting musicals we have been treated to some truly excellent performances. Tommy is an award-winning show, featuring a moving story and incredible music, and I can’t wait to see the amazing job I know the Douglas Choral Union will do under the directorship of Tara Wilkinson.”
“It promises to be a highly entertaining show, but also an opportunity for the Island community to enjoy a fantastic production and a wonderful chance for all those involved, on stage and behind the scenes, to gain experience, learn new skills and show their talents.”
“Bringing such a powerful and well-known musical to the stage will be a real challenge, but one I know DCU will relish, and I am very pleased SMP Partners is able to help.”
The emotional story of Tommy unfolds over two decades, from childhood trauma, through his inspiration of a generation as a ‘Pinball Wizard’, the recovery of his senses and the dramatic conclusion. The original album sold more than 20 million copies, and the story has been turned into a cult movie and award-winning stage musical on both sides of the Atlantic.
DCU Chairman Nick Cain concluded: “Tommy will represent a rare chance for local audiences to catch a fully blown rock opera at the Gaiety Theatre. It is a hugely exciting and ambitious production – one I firmly believe will wow our audience with its awesome power, musical invention and colour.”
DCU’s Tommy runs from January 31st to February 8th at the Gaiety Theatre.
