“One Night Only”- John Lennon Music Tribute Show – Septembear 1st, 2002
One Night Only An Evening of Rock & Roll Theatre
Written and Directed by Stephen A. Roberts
Production Designed by Christian Struzan
John Lennon played by Tim Piper
Stella Adler Theatre located at 6773 Hollywood Blvd.(Closes October 19) but hopefully will hit Broadway.
Tickets are $25 by calling
One Night Only is an evening of mainly music. Ranging from Beatle’s songs like Help! to John Lennon song’s like Imagine. The cast is small – a band of four, featuring Tim Piper as John Lennon, 2 guitar players , a drummer and a few roadies. There is not a lot of dialogue as one might hope for. There is enough to transition you through the different phases of Lennon’s life after leaving the Beatles. This Fabulous Band also plays in a current, John Lennon Tribute Band called "Working Class Hero" and also comprises a great Beattles Tribute Band called "Revolution".
The show takes place in New York September, 1980. This show is set in an intimate theatre five years after John has retired. This is a chance for friends to get a closer look at John in a casual/close environment. There are a range of songs from rock n’ roll to ballods. They pretty much go from one great song to the next featuring such classics as Revolution, Sweet Little 16, Rock & Roll Music, Working Class Hero, Strawberry Fields Forever, Money, Twist and Shout, Please Please Me, She Loves You, Help, Instant Karma, Just Like Starting Over, Beautiful Boy, Woman, Watching the Wheels and ending with the unforgettable "Imagine". A short Film is then shown on some of his life followed by a brief speach by the Director. Everyone is invited to meet the cast afterwards for a short while.
Tim Piper plays an amazing roll. Not only does he look identical to John Lennon, but his mannerisms, voice and ways are very similar. The way he relates to the audience, when he is singing or talking gives one a true sense of the sincerity, peace, humor and love that Lennon wished to share with others. Whether singing, playing the guitar or the keyboard, Piper’s talent shined and the audience was in aah of what a true talent he is.
The pace of the play flowed and kept me wanting more. Each song had a meaning and a melody to either dance or cry to. Crying, I did. Who would not after seeing actual photos displayed of Lennon’s death. The number of humans he touched with his music and his messages is tremendous. The photos are there to proove this, but just by knowing about Lennon’s life gives us a reason to feel this pain, even today. In our decade, I don’t believe there is has been such a true inspiration in the arts as John Lennon. He stands for love, peace, and mainly unity. This is conveyed in his lyrics and shines through his soul. Do not miss this show, it is a blessing to be in room with such a true genius.