What an incredible 95 years it has been! We will be celebrating this milestone throughout October with special events, new merchandise, behind the scenes tours, and more! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for exclusive giveaways, historical tidbits, and other surprises during our birthday celebration. It’s because of YOU, our loyal patrons, that we celebrate 95 years!
While these celebrations commemorate the history of the Tennessee Theatre, we are also looking toward the future. The Youth Arts Alliance provides opportunities for the next generation to experience the arts. Your donation will help us to continue inspiring students through our ticket subsidy program, masterclasses and workshops, the Marquee Awards, and other growing educational programs. To mark our anniversary, we encourage a $95 gift, or any amount you wish to donate.
Join us on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 1-3pm for a FREE open-house! While the stage will not be open during this self-guided tour, the dressing rooms, lobby, auditorium, and other areas will be open for you to explore and learn more about the history of the Theatre through our self-guided tour packets.
When the Tennessee was being built, films were silent so movie palaces such as ours had theatre organs used to accompany the film. By the time the Tennessee opened, films had soundtracks so our Mighty Wurlitzer organ was used as pre-movie entertainment rather than to provide the music and sounds for the film.
On Sunday, October 1 at 3pm, we will show Charlie Chaplin's City Lights accompanied by Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer organ. It's a unique and magical experience to see a silent film with the organ providing the music and sound effects. This film is free and open to the public, and concessions will be available for sale.
Join us at noon on Monday, October 2 for a FREE concert you won't want to miss! Mighty Musical Monday will feature House Organist Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. This month, in honor of the Theatre's 95th Anniversary, he will be joined by the Old City Buskers.
The Old City Buskers have developed the reputation of being a little bit quirky and a whole lot of fun. Whether the occasion calls for a four-on-the-floor pulse or break beat hip hop, they’re ready to bring it. The group formed out of impromptu jam sessions after their weekly swing dances. Shortly thereafter, they started busking on street corners around town. Being a band led by dancers they have unique insight into the best elements of music for dancing without all of the chest puffing from musicians with something to prove.
Please note that concessions will be available for purchase, and you are welcome to bring your own lunch to the Theatre to enjoy during this event.
Join us from 11 am to 1pm for Halloween cartoons and a FREE open-house with some fun PBS Kids activities and photo opportunities! This free event kicks off the spooky season with episodes of Wild Kratts, Arthur, Pinkalicious, Peg + Cat, and more. Children are encouraged to dress in costumes that represent what they want to be when they grow up, and will have the opportunity to explore different career paths!
The Theatre will be open to the public for self-guided tours and popcorn and soda will be available for purchase. (The stage and dressing room areas will not be accessible as part of the tour.)
Have you ever wondered how a Broadway set actually makes it onto the Tennessee Theatre stage? Or maybe you’d like to see how we help light Broadway actors as they step out from behind the curtain? Take a deep dive into what it takes to bring Broadway to you on this special tour of the Tennessee Theatre.
This tour is $40 per person and space is limited. Sign up here today!
Want a chance to win free Tennessee Theatre merchandise? Enter our anniversary scavenger hunt challenge! The rules are a piece of cake:
- Take a photo of 8 Knoxville landmarks that begin with each letter in the word "birthday"
- Add in your favorite photo of our iconic blade sign
- Post 9 photos to Instagram, tagging us @tntheatre
You will be entered into a drawing for a merchandise gift basket! Submissions will be accepted until October 30th! Happy hunting :)
We are excited to announce many new items in our Gift Shop! These include a new mug, t-shirt, and tote bag which can be purchased here, as well as our new limited edition ornament design that we'll be revealing soon!
Help support the Youth Arts Alliance everytime you sip our specialty cocktail during the month of October! When you order our Wurlitzer Fizz, featuring Company bourbon, ginger, and lemon. All proceeds from this cocktail will go towards our Youth Arts Alliance fund, providing educational opportunities for students and ensuring that all children have access to the arts.