Actress, singer and musician Sydney Rae White is currently to touring the UK in a brand new production of The Who’s iconic rock opera, Quadrophenia.

Sydney, 18, previously starred in The Woman In White and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, as well as the Disney Channel show, As The Bell Rings.

This talented and versatile performer is looking forward to bringing the role of ‘the girl’ to Manchester in this new version of the classic Pete Townsend piece, adapted by Jeff Young, John O’Hara and Tom Crtichley, who also directs the show.

What attracted you to Quadrophenia?
My dad has always been a big fan and my younger brother started playing drums at the age of 5 and modelled himself on Keith Moon so the fact that I am in this production is really special to me and my family.

The Who’s music is very iconic. What sort of challenges does this provide for you as a performer?

The songs are written for a man so technically and emotionally it’s a challenge but a very enjoyable one.

With the theme of disenfranchised teens, the narrative remains very relevant. How would you sell the show to a young audience who do not know the music?
I’ve always thought the TV programme Skins is like a modern day version of Quadrophenia, demonstrating that the story is timeless, and reaches out to today’s young audience.

The soundtrack continues to sell today. What do you think makes the music so memorable from a performer’s perspective?
The Who’s music was always dramatic and in many ways lends itself to musical production because of the images it creates.

If you were to sum up why audiences should see Quadrophenia, what would you say?
There is nothing else out there quite like it –stunning music, amazing costumes, bags of energy from a very talented young cast and I think there’s a huge connection for teenagers and adults alike. I really do think all ages can relate to the story and the iconic era…and it’s all perfectly timed for the current mod revival!

Sydney Rae White was talking to Glenn Meads

Quadrophenia arrives in Manchester from Tues 16th - Sat 20th June at the Opera House.