Overton Park Shell
The Overton Park Shell was established in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration. Almost twenty years later, a young Elvis Presley debuted on the Overton Park Shell’s stage.
Today, the Overton Park Shell is one of the only Depression-era bandshells still active, and has hosted local artists and international legends alike. Through the Orion Free Concert Series, the Shell on Wheels, and annual ticketed programming, the Overton Park Shell continues to be a leader in providing performing arts to the Memphis community. We talked to Natalie Wilson, the Overton Park Shell’s Executive Director, about the Overton Park Shell’s storied past and vibrant future.
1.Tell us about the Overton Park Shell: What’s the mission statement and vision?
The Overton Park Shell builds community through the performing arts, making it accessible to everyone. Our vision is that through our 88-year-old stage, we will be part of creating a livable community and a more connected, hopeful Memphis.. Now more than ever, the mission of The Shell is needed to bring us together through the power of music.
2. How did the Overton Park Shell get started?
It started on September 13, 1936, during the Great Depression. President Roosevelt's WPA Administration was designed to put people back to work during a precarious time in our nation's history. Along with projects to give jobs to citizens, Roosevelt had a vision of creating over 30 outdoor amphitheaters with the same design in cities across the country in an effort to build morale, trust, and hope through access to the performing arts. The City of Memphis was chosen as one of these locations and given $14,965 to build ”the Operetta Shell at Overton Park,” which later became the Overton Park Shell. What a dynamic vision for The Shell that is still as relevant today!
