Music has always been at the heart of Memphis, and this summer, that legacy takes on a whole new life in My Big Backyard. The 2.5 acre children’s garden at Memphis Botanic Garden, My Big Backyard or “MBBY”, is a family friendly space divided into themed garden neighborhoods, each uniquely designed to engage children with the natural world. One of our visitors’ favorite garden neighborhoods, Playhouse Lane, will be the location of our new musical addition to the garden.
Opening this summer, Fun Studio is an exciting new play experience inspired by the legendary Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and the recording home of iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and B.B. King. Designed as a playful tribute to Memphis’s rich musical heritage, Fun Studio is designed to be a reference to the iconic building on Union and the artists that made it legendary.
The playhouse features custom outdoor musical instruments created by Being Art LLC, the creative duo Anne Froning and Sean Murphy, who have similar instrument installations in prominent gardens and green spaces across the country. This is intended to be an interactive space that encourages children and families to create, explore, and make music together.
To celebrate Fun Studio’s opening, the Garden is hosting My Big Backyard Jam Session on Friday, August 8, from 6–8 p.m. This family-friendly concert will feature local musicians including Graham Winchester, Jeff Hulett, Ben Church, Frank McClallen, and Lori McStay performing kid-inspired sets in the heart of My Big Backyard, creating an unforgettable evening of music, movement, and community.
The excitement is already building. As Graham Winchester shares, “As a 10-year employee of Sun Studio, I couldn’t be more excited about our upcoming performance at Fun Studio!”
In addition to the show, attendees of the Jam Session can expect fun family-themed crafts such as maraca decorating, as well as hot dogs, frozen treats, and beverages for sale. We expect all of our concert goers to join in on the music-making fun, so come ready to get loud and don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes!
At Memphis Botanic Garden, we believe play has the power to spark creativity, build confidence, and bring people together. Fun Studio is more than a new attraction—it’s a place where families can unplug, laugh, dance, and create memories that last long after the music ends. We hope this space inspires young visitors to discover their own creative voices while celebrating the city whose musical influence continues to resonate around the world. Who knows? The next great Memphis musician might discover their love of music right here.
This blog was written by Natalie Brashear, Family Garden Curator at Memphis Botanic Garden
Natalie is the Family Garden Curator at Memphis Botanic Garden; she is a native Memphian and loves all things whimsical and wild.
