The Energy in the Air: What’s Going On at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium?
Steeped in the heart of Spartanburg, the 3,200-plus capacity venue that is the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium has been captivating audiences since 1951. The venue has seen a renaissance of life after a significant refurbishment in the early 2000s, transforming into one of the Upstate’s most robust cultural destinations. Its recently amped up events calendar has become the talk of the town with an ambitious line-up so dynamic, you’ll be left exclaiming, “What the heck is going on at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium lately?”
An Exciting Concert Calendar: A Stage Set for the Stars
Its musical plethora boasts a range of iconic performers from Lonestar, Queensryche, to classic rockers Kansas. Names like Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Clint Black further elevate the Theater’s prestige. According to Scott Ellis, Director of Event Services at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, the venue is all set to host an unprecedented number of concerts this fall that it typically would in a year.
A Classic Twist with John Anderson
One stand-out amongst the venue’s robust event schedule is a performance from country legend John Anderson. The artist, known for his iconic songs like “Seminole Wind,” “Swingin'” and “Straight Tequila Night,” will be performing on October 3 in a unique, stripped-down acoustic show that promises to deliver a heavy dose of storytelling and intimacy. Ellis expresses that Anderson’s concert aligns seamlessly with the theater’s traditional charm. It also testifies to the region’s appreciation for classic country music.
“The artist fits perfectly with the venue. This is a good market for classic country music for sure. It’s a good room, and the acoustics are fantastic in the auditorium; they always have been. We’ve done several acoustic shows with Travis Tritt and Vince Gill in the past,” says Ellis.
A Change in Leadership: The Road to Revival
What could be the secret behind this recent cultural shift at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium? Ellis commends the Auditorium’s CEO, Roger Newton. Newton, who assumed the role in 2022, has launched a more tenacious booking technique that has proven fruitful, creating a flurry of activity that’s putting the venue back on everyone’s radar. Furthermore, their team size has increased to cope with the burgeoning demand, indicating a bright future ahead with trotting concerts making a proud return.
With such a promising atmosphere, one can’t help but sense the frenetic energy at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. And, judging from its escalating concert schedule, this is but the beginning. It’s time to say goodbye to its fallow years and welcome an exhilarating, music-filled era!
Block Your Calendars Now!
For those keen to attend John Anderson’s intimate performance at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, mark your calendars for October 3! It’s looking to be an unmissable night filled with the purest essence of classic country music in an iconic venue.
