From Broadway all the way to Ames, “Motown the Musical” is hitting the stage of Stephens Auditorium Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. The record breaking musical follows Motown founder Berry Gordy as he transforms into the music mogul he’s known as today and creates a common connection through music. 

“Motown the Musical is infectious! The show is fun, energetic, and exciting and the audience feels all of those things,” said Brett Michael Lockley, a Baltimore native who is the Dance Captain as well as a member of the Ensemble for “Motown the Musical,” via email.

As well as being part of the ensemble, Lockley also plays Eddie Holland who is a part of the Holland-Dozier-Holland trio and a member of The Temptations.

The music that was created during the show is more than just an iconic genre. Featuring timeless songs such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “My Girl,” Motown launched the careers of Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and the Holland-Dozier-Holland trio, just to name a few. This era of music created a bond across the nation like never before. 

“Motown did more than just create great music, Motown brought people together. In a period of segregation and civil inequality the music of Motown delivered black music to the center of white popular culture,” Lockley said. 

The show has no shortage of music. With over 50 songs, there is something for everyone. Although the era of the music dates back to the 1960s the show is still appealing to all ages.

“For the older generation, it brings back memories and allows them to reminisce on great times that they had when they were growing up,” Lockley said. “For the younger generation, it exposes them to music and history that they may have never had the opportunity to learn about or understand.”

With the musical including such an extensive number of songs, there is a misconception that the performers on stage are actually singing throughout the entire show.

“I take it as huge compliment and testament to the talent and skills of the amazing cast I get to perform with every night. And yes, we are indeed singing the entire show,” Lockley said.

The cast, along with singing the entirety of every song in the show, also play multiple parts like Lockley. 

“What is so interesting about this show is that members of the ensemble play several different important members of the Motown family throughout the course of the show,” Lockley said. 

The cast makes sure to give the most authentic experience possible to the audience. 

“We are a very talented cast, who stays true to the Motown sound and look to elevate the experience of our audiences every night,” Lockley said. 

Lockley grew up studying dance which lead him to pursue musical theatre as a career and shortly before his role in “Motown the Musical,” he was performing in Japan for the past three years. 

Tickets are on sale starting at $35 through the Stephens Auditorium box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800-745-300.