There’s something undeniably electric about Million Dollar Quartet (performed by Theater Under The Stars) at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts through March 1. This jukebox musical transports audiences to a legendary night at Sun Records in 1956, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins came together for what would become an iconic jam session.

This is absolutely a jukebox musical. If you’re a fan of this era of music, you will love this thing from beginning to end. The hits keep rolling — from “Blue Suede Shoes” to “Great Balls of Fire” — and even if this isn’t your typical genre, there’s still fun to be had. It’s not my usual go-to style of music, but as the show progressed, I found myself recognizing more and more of these tracks. There’s something timeless about hearing these classics performed live.

While the musical offers interesting insights into where these artists were in their careers at that pivotal moment, the heart of the show is the music. This isn’t a sweeping, set-changing spectacle — it’s an intimate, music-driven experience.

The set design is simple but thoughtfully detailed to reflect Sun Records. Because the story remains in this isolated recording studio location, about halfway through I found myself craving a set change or a shift in scenery just for visual variety. However, with what the designers had to work with, they did a solid job making the space come alive. The studio feels lived-in and authentic, with enough room for all the musicians to play comfortably. There’s even a back soundstage area with a small window you can see through, which adds a subtle layer of depth to the staging.

One of the most impressive technical aspects? There’s no orchestra. Every instrument is played live on stage by the actors themselves. That authenticity brings a raw energy that perfectly fits the spirit of early rock ’n’ roll.

The performer playing Elvis absolutely sold it — the hair, the moves, the confidence. It felt like he truly embodied the swagger that made Elvis a sensation. The actor portraying Johnny Cash delivered with a deep, resonant voice that captured Cash’s signature tone and grounded presence. And the standout for me was Jerry Lee Lewis. The piano work was fast, flashy, and incredibly complex. Those rapid-fire runs were masterful and added some of the most exciting musical moments of the night.

By the end, the production shifts into a mini concert atmosphere, inviting the audience to stand, clap, and sing along. The crowd ate it up. The energy in the room lifted immediately, and even as someone who doesn’t naturally gravitate toward this genre, I had a big smile on my face watching these actors give it their all.

Ultimately, this is a strong date night option or a fun friends’ outing — especially if you’re heading out with people who already love this era of music. It’s nostalgic, energetic, and built around performers who clearly enjoy bringing these legends to life.