OUR STORY

Discover the rich musical legacy of Memphis at the iconic Overton Park Shell.

The Overton Park Shell was established in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and designed by local architect Max Furbringer. Today, it is one of the only Depression-era bandshells still active — a testament to Memphis’ resilience.

MEANT FOR MEMPHIS

From its inception, the Overton Park Shell has played a pivotal role in propelling Memphis into the spotlight as a blues epicenter and the birthplace of rock 'n' roll. This historic venue witnessed the electrifying debut of a young Elvis Presley in 1954, where his groundbreaking performance opening for headliner Slim Whitman marked what many music historians call the very first rock and roll show, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

In the years since, the Shell’s stage has welcomed an array of legends including Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Furry Lewis, Booker T. & the MGs, Isaac Hayes, Lisa Marie Presley, Mavis Staples, Sid Selvidge and many more. The Shell continues to be an essential milestone for local artists on their way to national recognition.

THE SHELL’S SURVIVAL

The Overton Park Shell's story hasn't been without challenges. On multiple occasions, the stage faced the threat of silence and the structure stood on the brink of demolition. Yet, the unwavering spirit of the Memphis community persevered, determined to safeguard this iconic heritage.

In the 1960s, the Memphis Arts Center had plans to raze The Shell and build a $2-million theater in its place. A petition, championed by orchestra conductor Noel Gilbert, garnered over 6,000 signatures, successfully thwarting the demolition plans and preserving the cherished landmark

In 1982, the NCCJ (National Conference of Christians and Jews) spearheaded fundraising efforts for restoration of the Shell. The venue was subsequently renamed in tribute to Raoul Wallenberg, a courageous Swedish humanitarian and diplomat who bravely and creatively saved the lives of more than 15,000 Jews by issuing them Swedish “protective passes” and building 30 “Swedish houses”, on which he hung Swedish flags and declared Swedish territory to provide protection.

By 1984, The Shell faced yet another threat, this time as a potential parking garage location, until local environmentalist John Vincent Hanrahan emerged as a steadfast advocate, spearheading herculean efforts to rescue and revitalize the beloved space. After his sudden passing in 1986, Hanrahan's family and friends established Save Our Shell, Inc. in his honor, successfully bringing music back to The Shell's stage. Save Our Shell, Inc. presented hundreds of free concerts, breathing life back into the venue

THE LEVITT ERA

The City of Memphis partnered with the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation in 2005, to launch an ambitious plan to renovate The Shell, bring it back to life and present 50 free concerts to the Mid-South, renamed as the Levitt Shell. On September 4, 2008, The Levitt Shell joyfully reopened with new equipment, pavilions, concessions and an exciting free-music schedule. Throughout The Shell’s vibrant, 17-year partnership with the Levitt Foundation, The Levitt Shell presented more than 600 free concerts and served more than 150,000 patrons annually, becoming a beloved music destination. The Levitt Foundation’s catalytic investment gifted the community of Memphis with a vibrant space for free music, a gift that lives on stronger than ever today and has allowed The Shell to enter into a new chapter. We are forever grateful for the Levitt Family.

A RETURN TO OUR ROOTS

On March 3rd, 2022, The Shell returned to its historic name of the Overton Park Shell, a change that indicates the beginning of a new era focused on our local Memphis community. Stay tuned as a new verse to our continuing song unfolds