Live Theater

Full casting has been revealed for the Nashville premiere of ONLY HOPE: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO A WALK TO REMEMBER, which plays the historic Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee, from Thursday, April 25th, through Sunday, April 28th, 2024.

Joining the cast will be CONNOR BARR as Clay Gephardt, BOURKE FLOYD (Dawson’s Creek, RENT) as Worth Carter, TANIA JOY as Cynthia Carter, DANI KUCERA as Tracy Sparks, ROBERT MANNIS as Reverend Sullivan, CASSADEE POPE (The Voice Season 3 winner) as Belinda Foreman, and RICHAUN STEWART as Eric Janzen.

They join original cast members BRIAN LOGAN DALES (frontman of pop-punk band The Summer Set) and JANEL PARRISH (Pretty Little Liars, To All The Boys I Loved Before) as Landon and Jamie, respectively.

Based on the beloved novel by Nicholas Sparks and unforgettable Warner Bros. film (starring Mandy Moore and Shane West), and featuring songs from and inspired by the film’s iconic soundtrack, the unofficial stage show tells the moving story of too-cool-for-school Landon Carter and devout Jamie Sullivan, two teenagers from different social circles whose lives intersect unexpectedly in the small town of Beaufort, South Carolina. Just as their unlikely friendship becomes something more, Landon learns Jamie has leukemia, but before she goes, she’ll leave a lasting impact on his heart, teaching him everything about life, hope, and the long journey ahead.

With adaptation by JORDAN ROSS SCHINDLER (co-creator of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical) and music direction and arrangements by ELMO ZAPP, Only Hope evokes nostalgia from the novel and film, while reminding us of the profound impact love and faith can have on our lives.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of Nicholas Sparks’ most cherished stories live on stage!

Get Tickets!

The concert, written by Franklin, TN residents Douglas Waterbury-Tieman and Annabelle Fox, will feature veterans of the stage and screen.

The Franklin Theatre will play host to a concert version of JOHNNY & THE DEVIL’S BOX, a Broadway-bound bluegrass musical, on September 16^th, 2022.

Written by Franklin, TN local and Belmont University graduate Douglas Waterbury-Tieman, and boasting a creative team of Broadway veterans, including Scott Wasserman (Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, The Great Comet) and Jennifer Jancuska (Hamilton), JOHNNY & THE DEVIL’S BOX tells the story of a boastful fiddle player who attracts the attention of the Devil in his aim to prove his skills.

“Johnny & The Devil’s Box is an exciting and unique opportunity for The Franklin Theatre to present world-class performing arts experiences to our community,” said Eric Dilts, Managing Director of The Franklin Theatre. “Audiences will love its lively, bluegrass score, conceived right here in the heart of Middle Tennessee. We are honored to be part of the development history of this highly praised new musical theatre work and look forward to watching this musical become a hit in Tennessee and beyond.”

“We have such a history with the Franklin Theatre, having performed there many times over the years with Studio Tenn,” said Waterbury-Tieman. “Now to be able to bring our original music to the stage with such an incredible cast of guest artists is an incredible honor. We can’t wait to watch the audience tap their feet to the fiddle in our very favorite theatre.”

The musical’s journey began locally at Belmont University where Waterbury-Tieman conceived of the work, along the way presenting a 29-Hour reading with Studio Tenn. Momentum quickly gained for the show until plans for a production at the Tony Award Winning Goodspeed Opera House were put on hold due to the pandemic’s shut down of Broadway. The Franklin Theatre’s engagement is an opportunity to present a distinct concert interpretation of the show for audiences prior to its full production Regional Premiere this November at the Cumberland County Playhouse in Crossville, TN.

The Franklin Theatre concert will feature Waterbury-Tieman alongside his wife Annabelle Fox (No Strings Off Broadway Revival), Matthew Carlton (The Doyle and Debbie Show, Nash Rep’s Ragtime), Rachel Potter (X-Factor; Broadway’s Addams Family, Evita), A.J. Smith (The Kelly Clarkson Show), Jake Speck (Broadway’s Jersey Boys; Nashville), with more to be announced. The supporting band will feature Zach and Maggie White, Laura Ray and Ben Jones, with Matt Logan serving as Consulting Producer.

Tickets can be found at www.franklintheatre.com/johnny-devils-box. Tickets are also available by calling 615-538-2076, or visiting the box office at 419 Main Street, Franklin, TN.

Crown jewel of Main Street in downtown Franklin reopened to much fanfare after massive renovation completed in 2011

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, the parent company of The Franklin Theatre, is excited to invite fans and supporters of the beloved Franklin Theatre to a night of celebration being held Saturday, August 7.  

Sponsored by Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson), the event will celebrate 10 years since the rehabilitation and reopening of the historic theater that has been a presence on Franklin’s Main Street since 1937. Through the power of dynamic sound and visuals produced by Matt Logan Productions and the premiere of the theater’s mini-documentary film produced by Stonecastle Pictures, attendees will be able to relive the last 84 years of the theater’s storied history combined with a glimpse of what’s to come for the future of the theater.

“If the pandemic gave us anything positive to take away, it gave us the time to focus on and plan for a truly dynamic event to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of The Franklin Theatre’s reopening,” said Heritage Foundation CEO Bari Beasley. “Thanks to our sponsor, Jackson, we’ve been able to create an amazing mini-documentary and have lined up an impressive night of entertainment to really celebrate what this theater means to all of us and to the city of Franklin.”

The Franklin Theatre opened its doors for the first time during the summer of 1937 when the marquee first illuminated Main Street. Moviegoers enjoyed fresh popcorn, afternoon matinees and walked away with a lifetime of memories.                                         

Over the next 70 years, the world changed a lot – but The Franklin Theatre stood as a testament to a simpler way of life. Time eventually took its toll on the venerable movie house, and the doors closed in 2007 under the pressing of rising rents and the trend toward mega-theaters.

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County couldn’t allow Main Street’s crown jewel to cease to shine, so the nonprofit preservation organization stepped in to buy and rehabilitate the historic landmark. After three years of work – and an investment of more than $8 million – the historic Franklin Theatre re-emerged better than ever.

To herald this milestone, The Franklin Theatre is presenting a 10^th Anniversary Celebration on August 7, 2021 which will serve as a key fundraiser for the theater in this year of post-pandemic recovery. The evening will begin with an outdoor reception on Main Street at 6 p.m. Theater doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a performance created by Matt Logan Productions, featuring iconic song selections that reflect the theatre’s past, present and future.

Proceeds from the cocktail attire 10^th Anniversary Celebration go to support the ongoing mission of The Franklin Theatre, which is a nonprofit, community-focused theater destined to create lasting memories through the power of the arts.

Tickets for the celebration range from $150 – $500. For additional information about the event, click here or call the box office at 615-538-2076.

ABOUT THE HERITAGE FOUNDATION OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY 

Since 1967, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County has been dedicated to preserving Williamson County’s architectural, geographic and cultural heritage as well as promoting the ongoing revitalization of downtown Franklin in the context of historic preservation. Notable projects include The Franklin Theatre, Roper’s Knob, parts of the Franklin battlefield and the Old, Old Jail. The Foundation brings county history to about 3,000 school children each year through the Heritage Classroom program as well as walking tours of downtown Franklin. Events and festivals produced by the Heritage Foundation such as Main Street Festival, the Heritage Ball, Pumpkinfest and Dickens of a Christmas bring hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors to downtown Franklin each year. The Heritage Foundation owns and operates The Franklin Theatre, the Downtown Franklin Association, and the organization’s newest division and current restoration project, Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens. For more information about the Heritage Foundation, visit www.williamsonheritage.org. 

ABOUT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE

Following a complete restoration by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County in 2011, the historic Franklin Theatre (Est. 1937), re-opened its doors as a state-of-the-art live music venue featuring performances by world-renowned artists.  The theatre also honors its heritage by continuing to show movies. The Theatre’s mission is to provide world-class, diverse performing arts experiences to residents and visitors alike and to be a platform for local philanthropic engagement and education, all delivered with unparalleled guest service.

For more information about The Franklin Theatre, visit  www.franklintheatre.com.

ABOUT JACKSON

Jackson® is committed to helping clarify the complexity of retirement planning—for you and your clients. Our range of annuity products, financial know-how, history of award-winning service and streamlined experiences strive to reduce the confusion that complicates your clients’ plans. We believe by providing clarity for all today, we can help drive better outcomes for tomorrow. For more information on Jackson, visit www.jackson.com.

Beginning with small, private rental events, theater now looking to bring back live entertainment, movies and hybrid live-streamed shows that conform to current COVID restrictions

FRANKLIN, TN (March 10, 2020) – After going dark to public performances last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, parent organization of The Franklin Theatre, is excited to announce the theater’s phased reopening plan for 2021.

Currently the theater is open for private rentals, including Monday nights through April where another local non-profit, Studio Tenn, is hosting its popular virtual talk show: Studio Tenn Talks: Conversations with Patrick Cassidy. In addition, as part of its mission to be a platform for local philanthropy, The Franklin Theatre is currently working in partnership with local video production companies and The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT) to provide an opportunity for non-profits to film affordable promotional videos to support their participation in The Big Payback, CFMT’s annual 24-hour giving event that kicks off on Wednesday, May 5 at 6 p.m.

The current reopening plan, which will be modified as needed based on any future COVID-related restrictions, will bring back limited-capacity weekend movies, limited-capacity plus livestream performances through June. Until the state guidelines indicate otherwise, the theater’s capacity is approximately 75 guests, which accounts for adequate social distancing.

Beginning in July, the theater will begin presenting movies and live performances with increasing regularity and possible increased capacity. The Franklin Theatre will continue to follow the governor’s Tennessee Pledge and CDC guidelines and update reopening plans as needed.

The theater’s box office will reopen with limited hours beginning on Friday, March 12, in time for Sandi Patty’s ticket on-sale date. The box office’s limited hours will run through April and will be 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday, Saturdays and Sundays. In addition to new shows going on sale over the next several weeks, many 2021-2022 shows are currently on sale.

• Sandi Patty (Limited Capacity & Livestream) – Saturday, May 8 | 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
• Deborah Allen (Limited Capacity & Livestream) – Saturday, June 5 | 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. – ON SALE FRIDAY, APRIL 2
• The Isaacs – Friday, July 9 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• James Gregory – Saturday, July 10 | 8 p.m. – ON SALE FRIDAY, APRIL 2
• Jeff Allen – Thursday, July 15 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• Larry Carlton – Saturday, July 17 | 8 p.m. – ON SALE FRIDAY, APRIL 9
• Farewell Angelina – Thursday, July 29 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• John Ford Coley, Billy Dean & Tom Wurth – Backgrounds and Bridges Acoustic Tour – Thursday, August 5 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• Allie Colleen – Friday, August 6 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• Henry Cho – Saturday, August 14 | 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• Gary Puckett & The Union Gap – Thursday, August 19 & Friday, August 20 | 8 p.m. – ON SALE FRIDAY, APRIL 16
• David Wilcox – Saturday, August 21 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE
• BJ Thomas – Friday, August 27 & Saturday, August 28 | 8 p.m. – CURRENTLY ON SALE

“We are emerging from an incredibly challenging season for The Franklin Theatre,” said Heritage Foundation COO Meg Hershey. “While we had to temporarily close the doors to public events, we are diligently working behind the scenes to reschedule some of the amazing programming that was planned for last year. We couldn’t be more excited about getting this cherished venue back open to continue its mission, bringing inspiring arts and entertainment experiences to our community.”

Hershey went on to say that surviving an unprecedented season which left the theater with very few options for programming has been nothing short of challenging.

“This theater has been sustained by the community’s embrace of underwritten marquee messages, limited small group private rental events and through the commitment of corporate sponsors and donors of the nonprofit Heritage Foundation and its division The Franklin Theatre,” she said.

The Heritage Foundation is also making plans for a 10^th anniversary celebration later this year to commemorate 10 years since the theater’s restoration and grand re-opening.

Audience participation encouraged at Mafia-themed show…

Backlight Productions, a theater arts program for adults with special needs, will host a mass interactive game experience based on the classic “whodunnit” party game, Mafia, at the Franklin Theatre.

The game will be led by Backlight actors performing alongside professional actors, and will also include audience participants as they seek to weed out the guilty amongst the innocent.

Audience members can choose to be interactive participants or observers, and all levels of tickets can be purchased HERE. It’s sure to be the perfect event for anyone looking to do something fun and unique.

The Mafia Experience will be held on Oct. 27 from 6-9 p.m. CLICK HERE for more information.

“REJOICE. It is even more glorious than promised.” – New York Times

“Once in a blue moon, a show comes out blazing and restores your faith in Broadway.” – New York Post

TIME Magazine’s #1 Show of the Year, MATILDA THE MUSICAL, is coming to The Franklin Theatre as part of the Act Too Players professional company, AT PRO, August 2-11, 2019.

Winner of 50 international awards including 4 Tony Awards ® and a record-breaking seven Olivier Awards ® including Best Musical, MATILDA THE MUSICAL is based on the beloved novel by best-selling author Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox). It is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny. Book by Tony Award®-winning playwright Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Australian comedian, musician and composer Tim Minchin.

MATILDA THE MUSICAL is directed by Sondra Morton, Theatre Arts Director for the Act Too Players.  Reece Benton and Reagan Schmicker share the title role of Matilda, New York based actor Thomas Demarcus will lead the way as Ms. Trunchbull, while Megan Murphy Chambers is set to play the wacky Mrs. Wormwood. Jeremy Maxwell plays the corrupt Mr. Wormwood, Erica Haines plays the kindly Ms. Honey, and Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva plays the lovely Mrs. Phelps. The show features the talents of several Act Too students and children. Jamey Green is Musical Director, while Jayme Smith serves as the production’s Stage Manager.

Performances run from August 2-11.

Tickets run from: $20 – $49, available at www.franklintheatre.com, 615.538.2076

Jumpin’ junebugs!  Summer is just about here, and June kicks it off at The Franklin Theatre with a full calendar of music, movies and live theater to quench your thirst for entertainment. Here’s a full list of what’s happening in June (more movies to be added as well):

LIVE THEATER

ACT TOO PLAYERS PRESENTS:

FRI 5/31 7 pm: The Wizard of Oz (Non-Musical)

SAT 6/1 12 pm: The Addams Family

SAT 6/1 4 pm: A Chorus Line School Edition

SAT 6/1 7:30 pm: Lucky Stiff

SUN 6/2 12 pm: Lucky Stiff

SUN 6/2 4 pm: A Chorus Line

SUN 6/2 7 pm: The Addams Family

CLICK FOR TICKETS

DORIS DAY MINI-FILM FEST

MON 6/3 7 pm: “Pillow Talk” (1959)

TUE 6/4 4 pm: “Calamity Jane” (1953)

TUE 6/4 7 pm: “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” (1960)

WED 6/5 4 pm: “Calamity Jane” (1953)

WED 6/5 7 pm: “Pillow Talk” (1959)

MON 6/10 7 pm: “Calamity Jane” (1953)

TUE 6/11 4 pm: “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” (1960)

TUE 6/11 7 pm: “Pillow Talk” (1959)

WED 6/12 4 pm: “Calamity Jane” (1953)

WED 6/12 7 pm: “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” (1960)

THU 6/13 4 pm: “Pillow Talk” (1959)

THU 6/13 7 pm: “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” (1960)

CLICK FOR DORIS DAY TICKETS

SUN 6/30 3 pm:  Nashville Opera Presents: “Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music”

CLICK FOR TICKETS

FEATURED MUSIC

Noam Pikelny & Stuart Duncan

FRI 6/28 7 pm

You may not know who they are – much less spell their name – but Noam Pikelny & Stuart Duncan are some bluegrass power to be reckoned with.

NOAM PIKELNY has emerged as the preeminent banjoist of his generation. He is a founding member of Punch Brothers and was awarded the first annual Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass in 2010 in addition to IBMA’s Banjo Player of the year in 2014 and 2017. Universal Favorite (Rounder Records, 2017) is the fourth record Noam Pikelny has released under his own name, but it’s truly his solo debut. His previous solo efforts-including 2014’s landmark Noam Pikelny Plays Kenny Baker Plays Bill Monroe-were full-band affairs that revealed his abilities as a dynamic bandleader while reinforcing his reputation as an inventive accompanist – with both albums receiving Grammy nominations.

Multi-instrumentalist STUART DUNCAN has built upon his bluegrass roots to become an artist who defies categorization and surpasses the limits of any specific genre. The consummate sideman, Duncan has lent his taste and tone to countless artists and projects. Whether trading dizzying instrumental licks with the likes of Béla Fleck and Jerry Douglas, or adding complimentary fills for vocalists Alan Jackson and Barbra Streisand, Duncan has found a professional “home” both in the studio and on tour. His playing and influence can be heard among many of today’s top hit makers, from British singer-songwriter Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin to American rock band Panic! at the Disco.

CLICK FOR TICKETS

Hearing the sound of “Sold Out” is music to our ears, though we hate for you to miss the fun. You can always call our Box Office and request to have your name added to a waiting list for a show – 615-538-2076, boxoffice@franklintheatre.com.

JUNE LIVE MUSIC:

THU 6/6 8 pm: Keifer Sutherland – SOLD OUT

FRI 6/7 8 pm: Keb’ Mo’ – SOLD OUT

SAT 6/8 8 pm: Keb’ Mo’ – SOLD OUT

SUN 6/9 8 pm: Keb’ Mo’ – SOLD OUT

FRI 6/14 8 pm: BJ Thomas – SOLD OUT

SAT 6/15 8 pm: BJ Thomas – SOLD OUT

THU 6/20 8 pm: Jimmie Vaughan – SOLD OUT

FRI 6/21 8 pm: Paul Thorn Band with Special Guest Bonnie Bishop – Limited Tickets

SAT 6/22 8 pm: Paul Thorn Band with Special Guest Bonnie Bishop – Limited Tickets

SAT 6/28 8 pm: Noam Pikelny & Stuart Duncan

CLICK FOR LIVE MUSIC TICKETS

Visit FranklinTheatre.com or Call 615-538-2076 for full schedule of events and to purchase tickets.

All Music and Movies Produced by the The Franklin Theatre Presented By Jackson National Life