VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Pharrell Williams debuted his movie, Piece by Piece, before a hometown audience of family, friends and special guests in Virginia Beach Thursday.

(WAVY Photo – Stephanie Cooke)

Pharrell introduced the Lego biopic to applause, and when it ended, there was more applause. He stayed to watch his movie and then greeted everyone in attendance afterward.

During an appearance on the Today show earlier this week, Pharrell talked about the upcoming movie and his roots, and explained why the Princess Anne High School marching band, 50 of whom appeared with him on the show, is a part of it.

“The reason why my high school marching band is on the song is because that’s where it all started for me, and Virginia Beach, Virginia and Princess Anne High School,” Williams said.

That prompted a cheer from the audience standing outside with them.

“VA forever,” they shouted.

Pharrell contacted the school in March 2023, asking if they wanted to be part of a song in the movie, and now, the song is out on Apple Music and is coming through production.

The movie opens nationwide Friday.