Broadway Premieres and Candlelight Classics: What’s On in Memphis Tonight
Broadway Takes Center Stage
Tonight, the theater scene in Memphis is buzzing with two major musical openings. At the historic Orpheum Theatre, the Tony Award-winning production of The Outsiders begins its evening run at 7:30 PM. Based on S.E. Hinton’s classic novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s film, this visceral new musical brings the story of Ponyboy Curtis and the Greasers to life with a dynamic score and high-energy choreography. Meanwhile, Playhouse on the Square hosts the opening night of Jagged Little Pill: The Musical at 8:00 PM. Featuring the hits of Alanis Morissette and a book by Diablo Cody, this show offers a raw and emotional look at a suburban family facing modern-day struggles.
Live Music from Jazz to Neo-Soul
Music lovers have diverse options ranging from intimate sessions to grand performances. The Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC) welcomes Don Was & The Pan – Detroit Ensemble at 8:00 PM, offering a night of sophisticated jazz and Detroit-infused rhythms. For those seeking a more atmospheric experience, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art presents a "Candlelight: Neo-Soul Favorites" concert at 8:45 PM. A string quartet will perform reimagined hits from icons like Prince, Alicia Keys, and Childish Gambino in a stunning gallery setting illuminated by the soft glow of hundreds of candles.
Art Exhibitions and Local Talent
Today marks the public opening of the 2026 Mid-South Scholastic Art Awards at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. This annual juried exhibition showcases the best work from middle and high school students across the region, featuring painting, photography, and mixed media. It is an excellent opportunity to support emerging local talent on their inaugural day of display. Additionally, visitors to the Brooks can explore the ongoing Navigating Knowledge exhibition, which uses maritime metaphors to examine how ideas and theories have migrated across cultures throughout history.
Alternative Shows and Nightlife
For a different theatrical flavor, Theatre Memphis continues its run of the comedy Always a Bridesmaid at 7:30 PM, a heartwarming and humorous story about the endurance of long-term friendship. Late-night entertainment seekers can head to Growlers for a live set by Echo Pilot starting at 6:00 PM, or visit TheatreWorks at 8:00 PM for the production of sex/work, which offers a contemporary exploration of its titular themes in an intimate setting.