Quadrophenia
Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK present
Pete Townshend’s Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet
Meet the new generation…
In 1973, guitar smashing rock genius Pete Townshend wrote Quadrophenia.
Recorded by The Who – it quickly became an iconic and multi-million selling album. Quadrophenia defined a generation and in 1979 inspired the cult classic feature film of the same name.
Now it’s back – this time as an explosive dance production – Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet with a cast of exceptional dancers, introducing new audiences to troubled mod Jimmy’s story while remaining true in spirit to the much-loved original.
Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s – sharp suits, soul music, vespas and parkas but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging and hunger for social change are just as urgent today.
A rich, orchestral version of the album by Rachel Fuller, first heard in concert version at The Royal Albert Hall and recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is the backdrop for this adrenaline filled rollercoaster ride.
Choreographer Paul Roberts and Director Rob Ashford bring together some of the UK’s finest creative talent from the worlds of music, theatre, film and dance. With original costumes by renowned British fashion house Paul Smith and Natalie Pryce, projection by Nick Hillel and lighting design by Fabiana Piccioli.
Prepare to be blown away as the power of dance brings a whole new dimension to the raw energy and emotion of one of the UK’s most iconic rock albums.
Creatives:
Writer – Pete Townshend
Choreographer – Paul Roberts
Director – Rob Ashford
Orchestration – Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar
Costume Design – Paul Smith, Natalie Pryce
Projection – Nick Hillel
Lighting Design – Fabiana Piccioli
Image description: A photo of a man has been cut out and placed on a white background with a blue circle behind him. He is completely washed in red. He is wearing a coat that is open exposing a bare chest. His hair looks wet. He looks as if he is moving with one arm out the the side and his hair moving in the same direction.
Play trailer
On tour May – July 2025
Plymouth
28 May – 1 June
Theatre Royal Plymouth
Edinburgh
10 – 14 June
Edinburgh Festival Theatre
Southampton
18 – 21 June
Mayflower Theatre
Salford
15 – 19 July
The Lowry