The Who’s iconic rock opera film screens in Morro Bay to benefit The Rock Community Radio, with costumes, prizes, and classic rock flair

All pinball wizards are invited to the next fundraiser movie screening benefitting The Rock Community Radio, 97.3 FM.

The classic rock ‘n’ roll film “Tommy,” featuring the music of The Who, is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at The Bay Theater, in Downtown Morro Bay. Tickets are available from My805Tix (my805tix.com/e/the-whos-rock-opera-tommy-fundraiser-screening-for/tickets) and cost $17.91 (includes service charge). Or go through the Rock’s website, TheRockCommunityRadio.org. Proceeds benefit The Rock, Morro Bay’s community radio station.

Called a legendary rock opera, “Tommy” was released in 1975. It was written and directed by Ken Russell and is based on The Who’s 1969 rock opera album “Tommy.”

The film features performances by The Who’s lead singer, Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, Oliver Reed, Jack Nicholson, and rock legends Elton John, Tina Turner, and Eric Clapton.

Memorable performances include Elton’s Pinball Wizard, and Turner’s Acid Queen. The film garnered several industry award nominations, including a Golden Globe win and an Academy Award nomination for Margret playing Tommy’s mother; and The Who’s guitarist, Pete Townsend for scoring and adapting the music from the album.

“Tommy” is a chance to see performances from some of rock music’s iconic musicians in their prime.

Hal Abrams, founder of The Rock, said, “This is more than just a movie night; it’s a celebration of classic rock and community. Every ticket purchased helps keep the airwaves open for unique, local, and diverse programming that The Rock Community Radio provides. We can’t wait to share this incredible film with our supporters at the beautiful Bay Theatre.”

As with other benefit movie nights, doors open at 5 p.m. and there will be a “Tommy” or The Who-themed costume contest before the show with some great prizes.

Beer and wine will be available for purchase. The Bay is located at 464 Morro Bay Blvd. See the website at morrobaymovie.com for a list of showtimes and coming attractions.

“Tommy” is the latest in a series of benefit screenings for The Rock, which is an all-volunteer, commercial-free radio station featuring an eclectic mix of DJs and music styles that is dedicated to providing the Central Coast with an alternative and diverse range of music, news, and community programming.

Based in Morro Bay, The Rock is found at 97.3 FM in the Estero Bay Area communities of Cayucos, Los Osos, and Morro Bay; and at 107.9 FM in Paso Robles. Stream The Rock online at TheRockCommunityRadio.org

Feature Image: Ann Margaret and Roger Daltrey star in “Tommy,” set for a benefit screening on Monday, Jan. 19, at The Bay Theater.