The year 1965 was the ‘breakthrough’ year for Tom Jones - the swivel-hipped singer from the Welsh valleys whose smash hit ‘It’s Not Unusual’ kick-started a massively successful showbusiness career still going strong 60 years on.
Born Thomas John Woodward, his stage name came from the 18th Century novel by Henry Fielding which had inspired a hit film and stage musical.
Romiley Operatic Society were ahead of the game, having chosen ‘Tom Jones’ for their 1965 spring show at Hyde Theatre Royal.
With the ‘other TJ’ making his chart-topping debut just a few weeks before the opening night, the society’s publicity machine did not miss a trick with their tantalising offers: ‘See Tom Jones in Hyde!’... ‘Let Tom Jones be your No.1!’
The North Cheshire Herald praised the production’s vigorous approach and ‘emphasis on colour’.
Bernard Nagle ‘cut a dashing figure’ in the title role, singing tunefully whether solo, in duets or with the full chorus. Mona Richardson ‘acted demurely and sang sweetly and appealingly’ while Eileen Booth made a great impression - ‘comedy nicely intermingled with dramatic appeal.’
From the Chronicle files - Thursday 26th June 2025
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