Ryman Hospitality plans $12M in Ascend Amphitheater upgrades
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Ascend Amphitheater from afar in 2016. Photo: Raymond Boyd/Getty Images
Ascend Amphitheater will host more concerts and community events under an agreement reached between Metro and incoming operator Opry Entertainment.
Why it matters: With its prime riverfront location in the heart of downtown, the amphitheater is one of the most popular music venues in the city.
Between the lines: Opry Entertainment, a division of Ryman Hospitality, won a competitive bidding process to take over the operation of the amphitheater beginning in 2026.
- Since it opened a decade ago, the amphitheater has been run by concert giant Live Nation.
- This is the third ticketed venue in Ryman's Nashville repertoire, joining the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium.
Driving the news: Ryman plans to pump $12 million in upgrades into the venue. Among the key investments will be connecting the downtown greenway, which is currently disrupted by the music venue.
- Walkers and bikers will no longer have to navigate around the amphitheater, but instead will be able pass directly through on a newly created path. Mayor Freddie O'Connell celebrated the new amphitheater agreement, including the greenway connection, at a recent media availability.
- The number of concerts will expand from the limit of 35 to 45.
- Ryman also plans to host more community events, like smaller festivals and public gatherings, at the property in hopes of activating the city-owned asset.
What he's saying: Ryman Hospitality chairperson Colin Reed tells Axios the company's plans for the amphitheater align with the city's original vision for Riverfront Park as "a fully activated space where local residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty of our riverfront and the tremendous asset of our greenway system."
What we're watching: Live Nation has its detractors, but the company has an excellent track record of booking high-quality shows. Because it operates so many amphitheaters across the country, Live Nation can route tours and make sure its venues attract the best artists.
- Since Live Nation also promotes concerts, music industry stakeholders are closely watching whether Ryman and Live Nation can collaborate on shows at Ascend Amphitheater.
What's next: Metro Council must approve the new 10-year lease agreement between the city and Opry Entertainment. The contract is up for a vote on Tuesday's agenda.