Tom: A Story of Tom Jones – the Musical at Richmond Theatre

Today Tom Jones is celebrated worldwide as a musical icon and renowned sex symbol, with chart-topping tracks such as Delilah and Sex Bomb remaining popular household tunes for young and old alike. Rewind to 1956 and the life of Jones, or Tommy Woodward as he was then known, couldn’t have been more different to the life he leads now. At the age of 16 the young star, still undiscovered, was due to be married, with a baby on the way, and it is at this point in his life that Theatr Na Nog’s production begins.

The musical tells the story of Tom Jones’ rise to fame and the struggles he faced before his eventual breakthrough in 1965. A detailed insight into the life of a normal lad destined for great things, we learn of the sacrifices made and the moments of weakness that led to the release of Jones’ first number one hit, It’s Not Unusual. A charming narrator guides us through the years and the actors playing Jones’ band double up as live musicians providing regular fantastic musical interludes.

Kit Orton in the role of Tom Jones is a delight to watch as he gyrates his way through hit after hit with a powerful vocal likeness to the star himself. He finishes the show with a medley that gets the audience on their feet and even the odd pair of undies thrown onto the stage.

Calling all Tom Jones fans and musical lovers, Tom is a cute and humble ode to the early success of the singer. The show is highly enjoyable, feel-good and funny and is sure to have its spectators humming the tunes for days afterwards. On tour until the 4^th June, snap up tickets now before they’re gone.

 

Michelle Keepence
Photo: Simon Gough

Tom: A Story of Tom Jones – the Musical is on at Richmond Theatre from 17^th until 21^st May 2016,or further information or to book visit here.