Nashville, TN - October, 2002
Updated: 11/22/08
The Ryman Auditorium is a National Historic Landmark and the famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry (1943-1974). It was built in 1892 by Captain Ryman as a tabernacle for his spiritual mentor Reverend Samuel P. Jones. The Ryman is currently used as a performance venue - Nashville's premier performance hall.
The restoration of the Ryman which began in 1993, maintains the historical appearance while meeting today's high entertainment standards. Acoustics from the stage are said to be second only to the Mormon Tabernacle. The garland stenciled along the Confederate Gallery, recreates the original decorative detail from 1897.
Many displays of Grand Old Opry history can be seen throughout the Ryman. These display feature items from Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Jimmy Dickens and others.
Tennessee
sculptor Russ Faxon created this bronze statue titled "Oh, Roy" of
Grand Ole Opry greats Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff. The life-size figures rest on
an original 1892 oak pew in the Ryman's main lobby.
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The
Grand Ole Opry House was built in 1974. But, the Opry's history was maintained by
inserting a circle of wood from the Ryman Auditorium's original stage. This is where all
performers who were part of the Ryman's 31-year Grand Ole Opry's history stood.
This
is the view the performers see standing on the stage. In front of their audiences,
they continue to broadcast the world's longest running live radio show on
WSM Radio and one-hour television show.
We
were there for their Homecoming, celebrating 77 years of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday
night. The
cake was cut during the television part of the show.
We were not familiar with the stars (past or present) performing on stage that night. Others in the audience were thrilled by the performers at the Homecoming Celebration.
We did not take our camera with us. Many people approached the stage and photographed the performers. During commercial breaks the performers interacted with the main floor audience.
Roy Acuff was known to practically 'live' at the Grand Ole Opry House. Therefore his dressing room was like a small apartment because, unlike other dressing rooms of its time, it includes a shower. The dressing room is maintained as a shrine to Roy.
We
all hear performers talking about their 'wait' in the Green Room. This is the
Green Room in the Grand Ole Opry House. It sure is a funny shade of green.
Every performer entering, passes by these reminders of the great history of country music. A photograph and fountain remembering Minnie Pearl and a photograph of Roy Acuff on stage.
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Attending the Grand Ole Opry Show and the tours of the Ryman Autorium and the Grand Old Opry House would be of interest to most people regardless of your interest in country music.