Brock Musical Theatre is ready to rock.

The latest production by the student-run group pays tribute to the 1969 rock opera Tommy by English rockers The Who. Tommy tells the story of a young man’s quest to become the world’s greatest pinball wizard.

Set during the Second World War and post-war England, the play follows Tommy as he grows up deaf and blind after witnessing his father commit murder.

The play chronicles his journey to connect and form deep relationships with other people, despite his limitations.

“The play touches on everyday struggles,” said Dani Viola, third-year Concurrent Education student and BMT production director.

“Tommy’s journey really highlights that even though we’re all different, we will go through the same struggles and we will overcome them.”

Over the last five months, BMT has been working nearly every weekend to produce the musical. Working hard since September, the cast is eager for the show’s debut at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, Feb. 2.

The 20-person cast includes students across different disciplines, as well as a five-person youth ensemble featuring Niagara children from four to 10 years old.

This was the first time BMT put out an open call for local youth to be in a show.

“Since we’re used to an all-adult cast, it was very interesting to interact and work with these kids,” Viola said.

“They have this great energy among them. Their local schools will be attending opening night, so there’s a lot of excitement going around.”

From Feb. 2 to 5, Brock Musical Theatre will put on five performances.

Students, staff and faculty, as well as the community at large, can purchase tickets online at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre box office. General admission tickets are $15.

Showtimes:

Thursday, Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 4, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 5, 2 p.m.