Editor’s note: Michael Swain-Smith plays Cousin Kevin in Weathervane Playhouse’s production of The Who’s “Tommy,” which runs through Sept. 29.
This is my first show back at Weathervane since 2015, when I was in “Raisin in the Sun.” I’m so excited to back here again. I started in their Emerging Artist Series as the Lion in “The Wizard of Oz,” then as Issachar in “Joseph.”
This rehearsal process has been very fast and really smooth for me. Cousin Kevin has always been a dream role of mine, so I’m having the time of my life in this show. I can’t wait to show the audiences what we’ve created.
My high school didn’t have a theatre program, or even a yearly show, so my love of theatre and acting was able to grow and flourish with Weathervane. My love for theatre grew so much that I decided to major in it. In May, I graduated with my B.F.A. in Musical Theatre. And now I am getting ready to fly to China with Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment as a touring live performer.
Our production of “The Who’s Tommy” features a super talented cast. When you come see the show, you’ll hear some of your favorite songs sung by some fantastic vocalists.
It’s been so cool to bring myself into this role and find different “Michael-isms” that I could make work for Cousin Kevin. I’m so excited to add this character to the book of characters that I can play, especially because our creative team (Fred, Josh, and John) let me play with the character in rehearsal until we found something very cool to show our audiences.
I can’t wait for everyone see this show. Make sure you come out and support The Who’s Tommy at Weathervane, now through the 29th!
“The Who’s Tommy” takes place through Sept. 29 in Weathervane’s Founders Theater, 1301 Weathervane Lane, in the Merriman Valley. Show times are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $11 to $27 and may be purchased by calling (330) 836-2626 or by visiting www.weathervaneplayhouse.com.
