Historic Ryman Auditorium Unveils New Elvis Presley Exhibit
(Background Photo) Eric Ahlgrim via Fox 17 WZTV Nashville (Circle Photo) Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images
The Ryman Auditorium has unveiled a brand new exhibit dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
The newly opened exhibit From Memphis To Ryman marks the 70th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s unique performance at the Grand Ole Opry on October 2, 1954, a historic event hosted by the Ryman itself.
This latest addition to the Ryman’s already impressive collection offers a unique glimpse into the life and career of one of music’s most iconic figures.
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A Glimpse Into The Past
Seventy years back, the Ryman Auditorium was the prestigious venue for the Grand Ole Opry. It was here that a young Elvis Presley faced one of his most nerve-wracking moments. Before stepping onto the stage, Presley confided in a bass player, expressing his fear that the audience would “hate” his performance. Although “hate” might be too strong a term, it’s reported that his rendition of “Blue Moon Of Kentucky” didn’t quite capture the crowd’s admiration.
The aftermath of Presley’s performance led to a notorious interaction with Opry Manager Jim Denny. According to Presley, Denny advised him to “go back to Memphis and drive a truck,” suggesting his music career was going nowhere. However, this account has been contested, including by Denny himself. While Denny acknowledged Presley’s style wasn’t the best fit for the Opry, he recognized the young musician’s talent. He reportedly told record producer Sam Phillips, “This boy’s not bad.”
Despite the rocky start, Presley’s appearance at the Opry became a pivotal moment in his career.
What To Expect
Visitors to the new exhibit will be treated to an extensive collection of memorabilia, including rare photographs, personal items, and stage costumes that highlight Elvis’s journey from his early days in Memphis to his rise as a global superstar. Additionally, interactive displays and audio-visual installations bring his story to life, offering fans an immersive experience.
Rare Artifacts: From iconic jumpsuits to personal letters, the exhibit boasts an array of items that paint a vivid picture of Elvis’s life and career.
Interactive Experiences: Engage with touchscreens and audio guides that detail Presley’s musical influences and his impact on future generations of artists.
Live Performances: The Ryman Auditorium will host a series of live tribute performances celebrating Elvis Presley’s music and legacy.
The highlight of the exhibit is a storytelling segment about Presley’s renowned performance, voiced by Matthew Ramsey from Old Dominion.
“The Ryman is full of history and stories like this, and it’s great to be a part of telling the story of someone who’s had such a tremendous impact on music and culture, not to mention my own personal musical journey,” Ramsey said. “I’m honored to narrate this incredible exhibit marking the 70th anniversary of Elvis’s historic Opry debut at the Ryman.”
RELATED: Tim McGraw Performs “Don’t Take The Girl” at The Ryman in 1994
A Must-Visit For Music Lovers
The unveiling of the Elvis Presley exhibit adds another must-visit attraction to Nashville’s already vibrant cultural scene. This exhibit offers a fascinating journey through the life of one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
Plan Your Visit
The public can now visit the Elvis Presley exhibit, and they can buy tickets through the Ryman Auditorium’s official website. They encourage visitors to book in advance to secure their spot.
Don’t miss your chance to walk through the life of Elvis in one of the most historic venues in the country!
