Carrying the Torch through Memphis: The Overton Park Shell
This blog was written in collaboration with our friends at Campfire Collective.
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.
This blog was written in collaboration with our friends at Campfire Collective.
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!
3. Why is Memphis the perfect home for Overton Park Shell?
Nestled in the beautiful 342-acre Overton Park, centered in our city's urban core, the Overton Park Shell is a beacon of hope and joy that is truly designed for everyone. With intentional curation of programming, it's truly a place that provides something for every walk of life of our city and county. I call the Overton Park Shell Memphis' crown jewel, because it's our space, owned by all Memphians, and open to everyone to find their place.
4. How can Memphians get involved with your organization or volunteer?
People are the heart of our mission. For those who are looking for ways to be part of something special, volunteering provides an opportunity to give back. We value our treasured volunteers who are on the front line with our Operations Team serving thousands of visitors who come to The Shell each year. From being part of our ”bucket brigade” helping in hospitality areas on our decks, to being a “barktender” for our Puppy Bar serving our furry community members, there are so many ways volunteers can participate at The Shell.
5. What are some big events or fundraisers that Overton Park Shell has annually, and how can people contribute?
We just announced the first concert of our “Shell Yeah! Benefit Series” this week with the incredible West Virginia songbird, Sierra Ferrell, on August 24. Shell Yeah! Concerts are ticketed fundraisers which support our Orion Free Concert Series. We are so excited about this year's programming of artists, both local and from around the world!
6. Tell us about your organization’s dreams and goals for the short-term and long-term?
Our strategic plan states that we will focus on three important goals for our organization:
1. Long-Term Sustainability: We want to ensure our nonprofit organization can always sustain our mission and steward our historic space on behalf of Memphis. We work to ensure a diversified business model that can sustain The Shell during changing economic times and that we can keep most of our yearly programming FREE.
2. We are focused on total preservation of The Shell's facilities – ensuring all critical renovation can occur and also allowing for important upgrades for another 80 years. We are working to raise $4 million.
3. Mission Growth: In 2022, we unveiled our new outreach arm, “Shell on Wheels.” The centerpiece is the Mobile Shell, a complete mobile replica of the Overton Park Shell on wheels, with integrated sound, lights, and power. Our goal is for all zip codes, neighborhoods, and communities of Memphis and the Mid-South to find access to our mission through Shell on Wheels. We want to bring our mission to the people, wherever they reside.
7. What does success look like for Overton Park Shell? What changes does your organization hope to see or bring about?
As the Executive Director, my focus is for the Overton Park Shell to continually evolve to meet the needs of our community and continue to be a critically important community gathering space.
8. Tell us a little about you: How long have you been working with this organization?
I have been the Executive Director since January 2019. When the board of directors approached me in 2018 about their search for its next leader, I was honored to become involved and to accept the helm. The Overton Park Shell is a true gift in my life and it brings me such joy to see the impact it has on Memphis and Shelby County every day.
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