AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — It was an older, gentler Who that performed “Quadrophenia” before a sold-out crowd of 17,000 at the Palace of Auburn Hills Sunday night, but the legendary British rockers still generated explosive power when they wanted to.

The show mixed rock and theater, with extensive use of video and drama to enhance the story of “Quadrophenia,” the Who’s 1973 concept album about the travails of growing up.

The songs, following the album order, were played with finesse and restraint by the Who’s three remaining original members singer Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, and bassist John Entwistle — accompanied by eight others, including lead guitarist Simon Townshend, Pete’s brother.

The intricate, at times orchestral, production featured a five-piece brass section and synthesized strings — nothing like the Who’s early years, when they pushed the volume and energy levels to the limits until erupting in a guitar-smashing frenzy.

Townshend was skillful but subdued most of the night. In a dark suit and open-collar checked shirt, he strummed an acoustic guitar and sang an occasional vocal.

Ninety minutes into the show, however, the crowd roared with excitement when an aide handed Townshend an electric guitar. He strapped it on and delighted the fans with a few full-swing “windmills” during “Doctor Jimmy.”

Daltrey’s classic rock tenor sounded strong and sure, varying from deep, growling vocals to whispery falsetto. Gray-bearded Entwistle stood frozen in place, except for his fingers, which leaped nimbly around the bass, especially during his lengthy solo on the forceful “5:15.”

Zakk Starkey, son of Ringo Starr, filled in admirably on drums, although he could not match the sheer power of Keith Moon, the Who’s drummer, who died in 1978.

Singers Gary Glitter and Billy Idol contributed bit parts, with Glitter going over-the-top with campy costumes and a mammoth hairdo, while Idol sneered with punk charisma as Ace Face.

Townshend, Daltrey, and Entwistle started an emotionally charged encore with “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” then were joined by the others on “Behind Blue Eyes,” and “Who Are You.”