From summer to fall, the Overton Park Shell is bringing free music moments to Midtown Memphis, TN!
– Natalie Wilson, Overton Park Shell Executive Director
The concert series runs from May through late October, featuring many, highly regarded local and national artists who are excited to take the stage. Additionally, their fundraising series of ticketed shows featuring marquee acts and special events offer exclusive experiences for music lovers in Memphis!
In addition to providing a space for musical memories to be made—and free opportunities to get up and get active—the Shell has partnered with Deaf Connect of the Mid-South, where many concerts will now include Certified Deaf Interpreters.
Incoming: Quick History of the Overton Park Shell
The Midtown Memphis staple was built in 1936 by the City of Memphis and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Designed by architect Max Furbringer, and built for $11,935, its infrastructure was modeled after similar bandshells in Chicago, New York, and St. Louis. The Overton Park Shell is one of a handful of the original 27 bandshells built by the WPA that is still standing.
During the 1930s and 1940s, the Shell was the site of the memorable Memphis Open Air Theater (MOAT) orchestra performances, light opera and musicals.
In 1947 the Memphis Federation of Musicians launched its Music under the Stars series, free to the public.
Over the years, there have been numerous efforts, some to revitalize the Shell, and some to destroy it.
INCOMING: Quick History of the Overton Park Shell
The Midtown Memphis staple was built in 1936 by the City of Memphis and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Designed by architect Max Furbringer, and built for $11,935, its infrastructure was modeled after similar bandshells in Chicago, New York, and St. Louis. The Overton Park Shell is one of a handful of the original 27 bandshells built by the WPA that is still standing.
During the 1930s and 1940s, the Shell was the site of the memorable Memphis Open Air Theater (MOAT) orchestra performances, light opera and musicals.
In 1947 the Memphis Federation of Musicians launched its Music under the Stars series, free to the public.
Over the years, there have been numerous efforts, some to revitalize the Shell, and some to destroy it.
Between 2005-2008, the Shell partnered with the City of Memphis and the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation to undergo renovations and launch a music series featuring 50 free annual concerts under its new name, “The Levitt Shell.”
