Formerly known as the Grand Ole Opry House and the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman Auditorium is a historic 2,362-seat live performance venue that has an important place in entertainment history. Located at 116 5th Avenue North in Nashville, the Ryman Auditorium has been a popular place for all types of gatherings from community events and political rallies to turn-of-the-century entertainment including ballets, operas, musical and theatrical productions and symphonies. Fondly known as the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974, the Ryman Auditorium is now a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.


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1. Ryman Auditorium History

Ryman Auditorium History

© Courtesy of Dave Newman - Fotolia.com

  • When was the Ryman Auditorium built?
    • The Ryman Auditorium was originally built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle in 1892.
  • Who was responsible for the construction of the Ryman Auditorium?
    • Steamboat Captain Thomas G. Ryman was inspired by the words of Reverend Sam Jones and vowed to build a great tabernacle.
  • Who designed the Ryman Auditorium?
    • The building was designed by renowned architect Hugh Cathcart Thompson.
  • What architectural style is the Ryman Auditorium?
    • The Ryman Auditorium was constructed in the Victorian Gothic Revival style, which was popular at the time.
  • Why is the Ryman Auditorium famous?
    • The Ryman became one of the most popular entertainment venues in the country, fulfilling Tom Ryman’s vision.
    • It earned the nickname “Carnegie Hall of the South” due to the performances it hosted.
  • What famous performers have appeared at the Ryman Auditorium?
    • The Ryman has hosted legendary performers, including:
      • Charlie Chaplin
      • Harry Houdini
      • Enrico Caruso
      • Ignacy Paderewski
      • Ethel Barrymore
    • The Metropolitan Opera performed exclusive productions of Carmen and The Barber of Seville.
  • When did the Grand Ole Opry move to the Ryman Auditorium?
    • In 1943, George D. Hay’s world-renowned radio show, the Grand Ole Opry®, found its home at the Ryman.
  • How long did the Ryman Auditorium serve as the home of the Grand Ole Opry?
    • The Ryman served as the stage for the Grand Ole Opry for 31 years, from 1943 to 1974.
  • Which country music stars performed at the Ryman during the Grand Ole Opry era?
    • Some of the greatest country music stars graced the Ryman stage, including:
      • Johnny Cash
      • Elvis Presley
      • Patsy Cline
      • Hank Williams
      • Marty Robbins
  • Why is the Ryman Auditorium important to country music?
    • As the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman became inextricably linked to the rise of modern country music.
    • It was hailed as “The Mother Church of Country Music” and recognized as the birthplace of Bluegrass.
  • What happened to the Ryman Auditorium after the Grand Ole Opry moved?
    • Although the Opry moved to a new location in 1974, the Ryman continued to attract fans from around the world.
    • Visitors still come to experience the legendary stage where so many iconic artists performed.

2. Interesting Ryman Auditorium Facts

Interesting Ryman Auditorium Facts

© Courtesy of Dave Newman - Fotolia.com

  • When was the Ryman Auditorium renovated?
    • In 1994, the Ryman Auditorium underwent a major renovation to restore the landmark to its former glory.
  • What is the Ryman Auditorium known for today?
    • Today, the Ryman Auditorium is a world-renowned, state-of-the-art performance hall.
    • It is praised for its striking beauty and phenomenal acoustics.
  • Which notable artists have performed at the Ryman?
    • The Ryman has hosted legendary performers, including:
      • Aretha Franklin
      • Annie Lennox
      • ZZ Top
      • Norah Jones
  • What types of tours are available at the Ryman Auditorium?
    • Visitors can choose between:
      • Self-guided tours
      • Guided backstage tours for a nominal fee
  • Can visitors record their own music at the Ryman?
    • Yes! Visitors can cut their own record or CD in the Ryman's recording studio.
    • Budding musicians can bring an original composition or choose from a selection of classic songs.
    • A professional sound engineer will record the rendition.
  • What does the Backstage Tour include?
    • The Backstage Tour provides a guided walk through:
      • The dressing rooms of famous Ryman guests, including Hank Williams and Minnie Pearl.
      • The wings where stars like Elvis Presley and James Brown awaited their cue.
      • The famous “Ryman Alley”, where the Everly Brothers were discovered.
    • Backstage Tours run every hour and half-hour from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm.
  • What can visitors find at the Opry Store?
    • The Opry Store offers a wide range of music and entertainment-related gifts, including:
      • Clothing
      • Books
      • Collectibles
      • Décor and ornaments
      • Music-themed gifts
  • Does the Ryman Auditorium have a café?
    • Yes, the Ryman Auditorium is home to the Bluebird Café.
    • The café offers:
      • Freshly brewed coffee
      • Homemade sandwiches
      • Salads
      • Decadent desserts
      • Hot and cold drinks

Ryman Auditorium, 116 5th Ave North, Nashville, Tennessee 3721, Phone: 615-889-3060

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