World premiere tour of mod ballet version of Quadrophenia to come to Southampton

Quadrophenia - A Mod Ballet will come to Mayflower Theatre as part of its world premiere tour next year.

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.

(Image: Johan Persson)

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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.

Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet will tour to Mayflower Theatre from June 18 to 21 2025.

A rich, orchestral arrangement of the album by Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar, first heard in concert version at The Royal Albert Hall and recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is the backdrop for this brand-new production.

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.

(Image: Johan Persson)

Pete Townshend told the Daily Echo: "The themes of young people growing up in difficult times are still so relevant. It’s going to be poignant, tender, poetic and epic."

The production is a collaboration between Sadler's Wells, Pete Townshend and Universal Music.

Quadrophenia tells the story of Jimmy Cooper, a mod teenager who loves parties, drugs, and dancing to The Who. Jimmy feels alienated from his family, idolises his friend Ace, and is infatuated with Steph, a beautiful mod girl.

Set in London in 1965, it follows Jimmy's search for self-worth and importance and features a series of running battles and a riot scene.

Tickets for the show go on sale on July 5 at mayflower.org.uk or by calling 023 8071 1811.