The Hillbenders Present the Who’s ‘Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry’

Pickin' and Grinnin' all the way through the entire rock opera 'Tommy' from the Who. You can see it live at the Hillbenders present the Who's 'Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry' at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center this Friday, May 5th.

This is not your grandaddy's bluegrass. AND, it's FUN!!!

• The Hillbenders, 'Tommy: A  Bluegrass Opry'
• Friday, May 5th at 7:00 P.M.
• Gallager-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
• Tickets start at $33 for this club style show.

Originally composed by guitarist Pete Townshend as a rock opera that tells the story about a deaf, dumb and blind boy, including his experiences with life and the relationship with his family. The original album has sold 20 million copies and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for "historical, artistic and significant value".  In 2003, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Tommy number 96 on its list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.

45 years after its original release, this classic of classic rock has now been fully realized as a full - we630length bluegrass tribute featuring Springfield, Missouri’s The HillBenders. Conceived and produced by SXSW co-founder and longtime musician/producer Louis Jay Meyers, this Bluegrass Opry brings a new perspective to Tommy while paying total respect to its creators.

The live performance is a full 75 minute show covering the original album from start to finish with audience participation.