Boston Arts Academy (BAA), the city’s only public high school for the visual and performing arts presents, “Memphis: The Musical” at the Strand Theatre this Friday (Jan. 25) at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday (Jan. 26) with two performances – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Based on the work of real life disc jockey Dewey Phillips, one of the first white disc jockeys to play black music in the 1950s, “Memphis: The Musical” is the story of a young optimist who believes that music can transcend race and societal barriers in the midst of segregation in the Deep South.

Aspiring singer Felicia Farrell, who is ready for her big break (and love) joins him on his journey to change the world (or at least Memphis, Tennessee) through music.

Written by playwright and lyricist Joe DiPietro, this Broadway production is the winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score.

A VIP reception on Friday at 5:30 p.m. hosted by BAA’s Advisory Council, will feature Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley who will accept the BAA Champion Award.

“I look for projects for our students that no other high school would dare to produce,” said Maura Tighe, BAA theatre arts faculty, and Memphis director. “We have a unique group of extremely talented artists, so this is a perfect musical for BAA.”

For more information about BAA and “Memphis: The Musical,” visit bostonartsacademy.org.