The Grand Ole Opry was initially started as a radio show in 1925 and has been performing as an ongoing concert since then. Currently, the best way to experience this landmark piece of American culture is to watch Broadway productions inspired by it. There are four wide-release musicals that portray the magic of live country music on stage, each representing different eras of the country’s history. Here’s what you might want to know about them.
Million Dollar Quartet
It is based on the iconic meeting of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins in 1956. The musical was inspired by an event that happened at Sun Studios in Memphis where these four talents came together to sing some songs for fun.
The musical features 24 country classics which include “Blue Suede Shoes”, “Fever”, “Matchbox” and more. The popular tunes are performed by actors who can belt out 1-2 country music songs each with ease while incorporating their own unique style. Dubbed as a true country music fan’s dream, you can check out the upcoming Opry schedule to get all the information you need about performance times. It’s hard not to get caught up in the energy when the performers arrive, playing their own instruments and singing to the crowd.
Sunset Boulevard
A musical that premiered in London’s West End back in 1994, was eventually brought to Broadway in 1995 for a successful run of over three years. This adaptation of the 1950 Billy Wilder movie stars Glenn Close as Norma Desmond, an aging silent movie star who spends her time vainly obsessing about making a return to films until she meets Joe Gillis, played by a newcomer Michael Ball.
For decades, Sunset Boulevard has received high acclaim from fans and critics alike for its creative set design, extravagant costumes, and outstanding performances from a talented cast.
Come From Away
This charming musical, which is currently on a national tour, tells the heartwarming story of how the island community of Gander in Newfoundland was welcoming to thousands of international passengers who were stranded due to an international travel ban after September 11th. The show features various classic country songs such as ‘I’m Already There by Lonestar and ‘Riding With Private Malone’ by Kathy Mattea, performed alongside original songs written by the team behind this musical. If you have kids, they will surely love all of those dogs running around on stage!
The Prom
A new production that opened just this year, The Prom is a charming show that tackles the timely topic of gay rights. Book writer Bob Martin previously won an Emmy for his work on “The Drowsy Chaperone”, so you can expect plenty of laughs here! It tells the story of four young outsiders who attend prom together at their high school in Indiana, where they are faced with unexpected challenges and ridiculed by students and parents alike.
The Grand Ole Opry is a must-watch for everyone, and to add up to the excitement, it features four best musicals this upcoming season. The musicals are composed of iconic songs that will surely make the audience remember them instantly. If you’re looking forward to being entertained by these exciting items, then get ready and grab your tickets because they’re coming soon!
