Ashton Smith
2026-01-23 19:00 (America/Chicago) | The Mockingbird Theater at The Factory at Franklin, 230 Franklin Road, Bldg 6, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Prepare for an elecrifying evening with Ashton and special guest Cat Flint and Benny La Mar ! Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy an incredible atmosphere and great company.

Lonesome River Band
2026-01-23 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Lonesome River Band with special guests Tennessee WoodPile | The Franklin Theatre
Experience an evening of high-octane bluegrass with the legendary Lonesome River Band, led by multi-award-winning banjo master Sammy Shelor. Celebrating over 40 years of their influential signature sound, the quintet will showcase hits from their latest collection, The Winning Hand, alongside the powerful harmonies and driving rhythms that have made them genre icons. Joining them are Franklin’s own Tennessee WoodPile, bringing a vibrant mix of traditional bluegrass roots and modern Americana flare. Don’t wait to grab your tickets for this must-see pairing of bluegrass royalty and local favorites—secure your seats today!

Oliver Jr
2026-01-24 12:00 - 2026-01-25 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Oliver Jr at The Franklin Theatre

Musical
Rated PG 60mins
Consider yourself at home with Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on the Charles Dickens novel, Oliver Twist.
The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance amongst a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft that he did not commit, the benevolent victim, Mr. Brownlow takes him in. Fearing the safety of his hideout, Fagin employs the sinister Bill Sikes and the sympathetic Nancy to kidnap him back, threatening Oliver’s chances of discovering the true love of a family.
Performed by the talented teens of Act Too Players (Ages 7-18)
Be sure to check the cast list prior to buying tickets to make sure you have the right showtime: https://www.acttooplayers.com/cast-list

Sweeney Todd: School Edition
2026-01-24 15:00 - 2026-01-25 15:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Sweeney Todd: School Edition at The Franklin Theatre
Rated PG-13 | Dark Comedy Musical
Length: Two Act with Intermission | 2hrs 20min
Attend the dark, witty and Tony Award-winning tale of love, murder and revenge set against the backdrop of nineteenth-century London.
An infamous tale, Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth-century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which he opens a new barber practice. Mrs. Lovett’s luck sharply shifts when Todd’s thirst for blood inspires the integration of an ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up… and the carnage has only just begun!
Performed by the talented teens of Act Too Players (Ages 14-18)
Be sure to check the cast list prior to buying tickets to make sure you have the right showtime: https://www.acttooplayers.com/cast-lis

U4ia: Celebrating the Music of U2
2026-01-30 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Experience an electrifying night of rock as U4ia—a powerhouse group of Nashville musicians who have toured with icons like Aerosmith and Ringo Starr—brings four decades of U2’s greatest hits to life. This high-energy performance focuses on musical accuracy and a nostalgic, feel-good atmosphere that honors the spirit of the legendary Irish rockers. Best of all, every concert supports a mission of giving, with proceeds benefiting charitable organizations addressing housing, food insecurities, and humanitarian needs. Secure your seats now for a night of world-class music that feels good and does good!

SMC x Filmmakers in Franklin Presents Mulan (1998) ft. Director Tony Bancroft
2026-01-31 11:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
SMC x Filmmakers in Franklin Presents Mulan (1998) ft. Director Tony Bancroft | The Franklin Theatre
FILMMAKERS IN FRANKLIN: “Bringing Hollywood to Historic Franklin” – a new Film Event Series presents: Disney’s MULAN screening, Q n’ A, and Meet & Greet, with Disney Director: Tony Bancroft.
Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00am. Produced and hosted by actress Leah Allers.
“To save her father from certain death in the army, a young woman secretly enlists in his place and becomes one of China’s greatest heroines in the process.”
*Please be aware the Franklin Theatre does not show previews. Movies will begin at the posted time.

Pull-Tight Players Theatre: Auditions for Harvey
2026-01-31 18:30 - 2026-02-01 14:30
This classic American play by Mary Chase comes to the Pull-Tight stage in February. Make plans to attend our open auditions Saturday, Jan. 31st and Sunday February 1st, 2026.
Saturday, Jan. 31st –
6:30 p.m.
Pull-Tight Theater
112 2nd Ave S.
Franklin TN, 37064
Sunday, Feb. 1st –
2:30 p.m.
John Peppers Law Office
235 3rd. Ave. N.
Franklin TN, 37064
* Please note that the Feb. 1 audition is not at the theater.

HAPPY DAYS: From Broadway and Beyond, starring Laura Osnes and Carrie Manolakos
2026-01-31 19:30 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
HAPPY DAYS: From Broadway and Beyond, starring Laura Osnes and Carrie Manolakos | The Franklin Theatre
Experience an unforgettable evening at The Franklin Theatre as Broadway powerhouses Laura Osnes (Cinderella, Bonnie & Clyde) and Carrie Manolakos (Wicked, Mamma Mia!) join forces for “HAPPY DAYS: From Broadway and Beyond.” This spectacular showcase blends iconic theatrical hits with original music, highlighting the incredible range of Osnes’s crystalline soprano and Manolakos’s haunting, soulful vocals. From their celebrated turns on the New York stage to their latest chart-topping singles, these two world-class artists bring a touch of Broadway magic right to the heart of Franklin. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see these acclaimed stars share the stage for a night of song and storytelling.

Clean Comedy Night with Marcus Saputo and Friends
2026-02-05 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Get ready for a night of big laughs at The Franklin Theatre with “Clean Comedy Night with Marcus Saputo and Friends!” Born in Wyoming and now based in Nashville, Marcus serves up side-splitting physical and situational comedy inspired by his Italian heritage and unique life experiences. From stories about his upbringing to hilarious observations on the everyday, he travels the country sprinkling laughter like fresh parmesan. Don’t miss this family-friendly evening of top-tier stand-up that is as wholesome as a homemade lasagna!

Swanky Southern Nights LIVE Radio Show
2026-02-06 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Experience a special live broadcast of the popular worldwide show Swanky Southern Nights! Hosted by “The Tennessee Troubadour” Makky Kaylor and Brenda Lynn “Brynn,“ the show features a soulful blend of the Nashville Sound and the Great American Songbook, backed by The Swanky South Players.
Don’t miss their lively interview and audience Q&A with special guest Donny Most (“Ralph Malph” from Happy Days).

These Shining Lives
2026-02-06 19:30 - 2026-02-08 14:30, 2026-02-11 19:30 - 2026-02-15 14:30, 2026-02-18 19:30 - 2026-02-21 19:30 | Pull-Tight Players Theatre, 112 2nd Avenue South, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
These Shining Lives | Pull-Tight Players Theatre
By Melanie Marnich
Directed by Bre Hall
Produced by Bre Hall and Cindy Davis Massey
Feb. 6-21, 2026
The true story of the “Radium Girls” who worked in the 1920s and 30s at the Radium Dial Company, unknowingly exposing themselves to horrible health consequences. The women fight through illness for justice. It’s the kind of gripping drama that will keep you thinking and talking long after the show.
Learn more here.

Yacht’s Landing: A Yacht Rock Tribute
2026-02-07 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Yacht’s Landing: A Yacht Rock Tribute at The Franklin Theatre

Formerly booking themselves as Live From Ventura Boulevard, this band decided to jump into the marina head first and Yacht’s Landing was born. The band consists of experienced touring veterans from Nashville who have trafficked in the world of Yacht Rock for many years. When not entertaining crowds in their newly acquired 70’s attire, you might find these smooth rockers sharing the stage with Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, Peter Cetera, Dave Jenkins from Pablo Cruise, David Foster, Jason Scheff (formerly of Chicago), and even American Idol winners Carrie Underwood and David Cook.
Pop music in the late seventies gave us some unforgettable melodies, instrumental hooks, and arrangements performed by some of the greatest musicians and vocalists who have ever lived. Yacht’s Landing will take you back to that era with a set list filled with an eclectic blend of Power Pop, Top 40, as well as some high-end AOR (Album Oriented Rock) gems to keep the good vibes flowing all night long.
These guys come about their yachty-ness honestly and strive to bring you these classic soft-rock tunes with the utmost authenticity, excellence, and all the campy attitude you’ve come to expect from this brand of entertainment. “We’ve entertained crowds all over the world with this music playing with the original artists, so why not keep the party going?”, says Scott Sheriff, their keyboardist and band leader. “There’s definitely a market out there for this style of music and we love playing it.” Sheriff has been performing Steely Dan/Chicago tributes in Nashville since 2004 and has come to realize, “While this town is known mostly for country, there’s definitely a strong base of fans of classic West Coast AOR, or what’s become known as ‘Yacht Rock’”, thanks to bands like the Revue and Schooner. They are excited to join the fold of Please Rock options in this arena.
If you resonate with the music of the artists listed below (and many others), then Yacht’s Landing is the perfect band for your event!
Examples: Boz Scaggs, Kenny Loggins, The Doobie Brothers, Little River Band, Ambrosia, The Eagles, America, Pablo Cruise, Gino Vannelli, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Player, The Bee Gees

Yacht’s Landing: A Yacht Rock Tribute
2026-02-07 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Formerly booking themselves as Live From Ventura Boulevard, this band decided to jump into the marina head first and Yacht’s Landing was born. The band consists of experienced touring veterans from Nashville who have trafficked in the world of Yacht Rock for many years. When not entertaining crowds in their newly acquired 70’s attire, you might find these smooth rockers sharing the stage with Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, Peter Cetera, Dave Jenkins from Pablo Cruise, David Foster, Jason Scheff (formerly of Chicago), and even American Idol winners Carrie Underwood and David Cook.
Pop music in the late seventies gave us some unforgettable melodies, instrumental hooks, and arrangements performed by some of the greatest musicians and vocalists who have ever lived. Yacht’s Landing will take you back to that era with a set list filled with an eclectic blend of Power Pop, Top 40, as well as some high-end AOR (Album Oriented Rock) gems to keep the good vibes flowing all night long.
These guys come about their yachty-ness honestly and strive to bring you these classic soft-rock tunes with the utmost authenticity, excellence, and all the campy attitude you’ve come to expect from this brand of entertainment. “We’ve entertained crowds all over the world with this music playing with the original artists, so why not keep the party going?”, says Scott Sheriff, their keyboardist and band leader. “There’s definitely a market out there for this style of music and we love playing it.” Sheriff has been performing Steely Dan/Chicago tributes in Nashville since 2004 and has come to realize, “While this town is known mostly for country, there’s definitely a strong base of fans of classic West Coast AOR, or what’s become known as ‘Yacht Rock’”, thanks to bands like the Revue and Schooner. They are excited to join the fold of Please Rock options in this arena.
If you resonate with the music of the artists listed below (and many others), then Yacht’s Landing is the perfect band for your event!
Examples: Boz Scaggs, Kenny Loggins, The Doobie Brothers, Little River Band, Ambrosia, The Eagles, America, Pablo Cruise, Gino Vannelli, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Player, The Bee Gees.

Crystal Bowersox
2026-02-12 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Crystal Bowersox, a northwest Ohio native, has built her world around music. By the age of 10, she was performing in local clubs and venues. On the cusp of 18 and with a curious heart, Crystal moved to Chicago, IL, where she spent her days busking on subway platforms between working odd jobs and attending school.
Chicago’s rich musical history helped Bowersox to broaden her musical horizons. Ultimately, Bowersox auditioned for the ninth season of American Idol, and her time on the show proved to be well spent. In 2010, her debut album, “Farmer’s Daughter” was released on Jive Records and since, she has since released 3 LP’s, two EPs, several singles, and is currently developing a theatrical rock concert titled, “Trauma Queen”. Crystal has recorded and performed alongside several notable names and additionally, has used her voice and talents to benefit several organizations close to her heart.

Caymus Under the Stars: A Valentine's Igloo Dinner at 1799
2026-02-13 16:00 - 2026-02-15 23:00 | The Harpeth Hotel, Franklin Downtown, 130 2nd Ave N., Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Caymus Under the Stars: A Valentine’s Igloo Dinner at 1799 | Downtown Franklin | February 13-15, 2026
An intimate winter escape featuring a Valentine-inspired, five-course culinary journey thoughtfully crafted by Chef Thomas and paired with celebrated wines from Caymus Vineyards and the Wagner Family.
Each private igloo is styled with Valentine’s flair, creating a warm, candlelit setting for an unforgettable evening.
The experience begins with a welcome glass of bubbles, followed by indulgent courses—from burrata and lobster risotto to individual beef Wellington and a decadent chocolate finale—each expertly paired to highlight the elegance and depth of the wines.
Designed for romance, connection, and indulgence, this limited-seating experience offers a truly memorable way to celebrate Valentine’s weekend.
$250 per person, 2 guests minimum – 4 guests maximum. Prices include all taxes and gratuity. All attendees must be 21+. A three-hour maximum applies to all Valentine’s Day igloo reservations.

Valentine's Day Dinner at Frothy Monkey 2026
2026-02-13 17:00 - 2026-02-14 20:30 | Frothy Monkey Downtown Franklin, 125 5th Avenue S., Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Frothy Love Dinners in Franklin | Friday, February 13th – Saturday, February 14th, 2026
$70 per couple | Add a Bottle of Wine $30 | Seating 5pm – 8:30pm | Reservations Encouraged
Valentine’s Day Frothy Love 3-Course Dinners are back at your local Frothy Monkey cafe in downtown Franklin, February 13th – 14th, 2026, from 5pm – close. Frothy’s Valentine’s Day dinner for two is $70 per couple and includes an appetizer, two entrees and a dessert. Add a bottle of hand selected wine for $30.
Cozy up beside your favorite person – or people! – to celebrate who you love. Frothy Love Dinners are a group-friendly and family-friendly Valentine’s Day event. Our regular menu will be available for additional drinks, food, and kids items.
Leave your burdens at the door and toast to your love, at Frothy Love!

Make a Frothy Love Dinner Reservation
Reservations will open January 22nd, 2026! Please reserve your table at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Walk-ins will be seated depending on availability.
Reservations are available starting January 22nd, 2026.

First Kiss Friday! Pride & Prejudice (2005)
2026-02-13 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
First Kiss Friday! Pride & Prejudice (2005) – The Franklin Theatre

Based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, the classic tale of love and values unfolds in the class-conscious England of the late 18th century. The five Bennet sisters — including strong-willed Elizabeth (Keira Knightley) and young Lydia (Jena Malone) — have all been raised by their mother (Brenda Blethyn) with one purpose in life; finding a husband. When a wealthy bachelor takes up residence in a nearby mansion, the Bennets are abuzz. Among the man’s sophisticated circle of friends, surely there will be no shortage of suitors for the Bennet sisters. But when Elizabeth meets up with the handsome and — it would seem — snobbish Mr. Darcy (Matthew MacFadyen), the battle of the sexes begins.
*Please be aware the Franklin Theatre does not show previews. Movies will begin at the posted time.

Teddy Bear Brunch at 1799 Kitchen and Bar Room
2026-02-14 10:00 - 2026-02-15 14:00 | 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room, 130 2nd Ave N, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with the whole family 2/14/26 & 2/15/26 from 10 am-2 pm in downtown Franklin, at 1799 Kitchen + Bar Room. Teddy Bear brunch will feature our delectable brunch options with Valentine’s flair, and festive drinks. There will be valentines themed photo opportunities featuring hundreds of teddy bears. Each child will receive a complimentary teddy bear to take home. Don’t Forget Your Camera to Capture the Moment!

Music City Dueling Pianos: Love Songs
2026-02-14 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Music City Dueling Pianos: Love Songs | The Franklin Theatre, February 14, 2026
Experience a night of romance and rock ‘n’ roll with Music City Dueling Pianos: Love Songs at The Franklin Theatre! This special show features piano master Chris Hatfield and acclaimed singer-songwriter Rachel Solomon(dubbed “the female Billy Joel”).
The duo blends rock, pop, country, and classics into a hilarious and heartfelt dueling piano battle focused on the best love songs of all time. You won’t want to miss this unforgettable, high-energy show guaranteed to have you singing, laughing, and celebrating the soundtrack of your heart!

Crafted Together: A Valentine’s Cocktail & Cooking Class at 1799
2026-02-15 17:00 - 19:30 | 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room, 130 2nd Ave N, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Celebrate a Valentine’s Day weekend crafted for romance at The Harpeth Hotel, brought to you by the 1799 Kitchen culinary team. Join Chef Thomas on Sunday, February 15 at 5pm for an intimate, hands-on culinary experience designed to bring you closer—one sip, one stir, one bite at a time. Your ticket includes: Welcome glass of bubbles Fine cheeses and charcuterie Guided Cocktail Making Experience Guided Pasta Making Experience Sweet treat to share Recipe card to take home and recreate
General Admission
$179.00 ($160.00 + $19.00 booking fee)
Price Per Couple (2 People), Booking fee includes 20% Gratuity & Taxes

Drink The Sea (featuring members of R.E.M., Screaming Trees, and More)
2026-02-15 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Drink The Sea (featuring members of R.E.M., Screaming Trees, and More) February 15 | 7:00 PM at The Franklin Theatre
This coming February 15th, The Franklin Theatre welcomes Drink The Sea, a new supergroup featuring members of R.E.M., Screaming Trees, and more. What started as a jam session in Washington quickly evolved into a global project, with the band’s two debut albums recorded in studios spanning Iceland, Brazil, Chile, and the United States. Their music blends traditional rock with a rich tapestry of world influences, incorporating instruments like the Arabic oud, Indian sitar, and Indonesian gamelans.
Join us for a truly unique musical journey crafted by these seasoned artists

The Ground Beneath Our Feet- Special Screening & Cast Meet-and-Greet
2026-02-16 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
The Ground Beneath Our Feet- Special Screening & Cast Meet-and-Greet – The Franklin Theatre
Join us for an exclusive screening of The Ground Beneath Our Feet, the award-winning film that’s touching audiences nationwide. Meet the creative minds behind the project, including the producer, screenwriter, filmmaker, and featured cast members, and capture the moment in front of the official step-and-repeat. This will be a night to remember! Learn more here!

The Franklin Theatre Songwriters Series Presents: Home by Dark featuring Tony Arata
2026-02-19 19:30 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
HOME BY DARK is a nationally acclaimed concert experience combining unforgettable songs with the stories that inspired them. Celebrating its milestone 20th anniversary season, HOME BY DARK will take the stage on Thursday, February 19, featuring special guest Tony Arata, member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the legendary writer behind Garth Brooks’ timeless hit “The Dance.”
Tony Arata has had No. 1 records with “Here I Am” for Patty Loveless, “I’m Holding My Own” for Lee Roy Parnell, and “Dreaming With My Eyes Open” for Clay Walker. His songs have also been recorded by some of the most respected voices in music, including Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Bonnie Raitt, Trisha Yearwood, Delbert McClinton, Don Williams, Reba McEntire, Suzy Bogguss, and Hal Ketchum. With heartfelt stories and soul-stirring melodies, Tony reminds us why the songwriter is the true heartbeat of music.
Since 2007, HOME BY DARK has stood by one powerful belief: “A Song Can Change Your Life.” Known for its world-class band and deep focus on storytelling, the series has earned a reputation as one of the premier listening room experiences in the country. Past special guests have included acclaimed artists and songwriters such as Christopher Cross, Patty Loveless, Tommy Sims and many more.
Join us for this unforgettable debut performance as HOME BY DARK, featuring Tony Arata, delivers an extraordinary evening of songs, stories, laughter, and inspiration—and proves once again that a song can change your life.

The Box Tops​
2026-02-20 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Travel back to the 60s with legendary Memphis Blue-eyed Soul group, The Box Tops, live at The Franklin Theatre! Led by original founding members Bill Cunningham and Gary Talley, the group delivers their sweet, gritty sound, earning them a spot in the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Sing along to their worldwide mega-hit “The Letter,” ranked by USA TODAY as one of the 100 Greatest Songs of All Time. Don’t miss this iconic show that’s a guaranteed cure for today’s time—it’s a celebration of love, peace, and timeless rock and soul!

Dom Flemons presents The Bronze Buckaroo Film & Songster Show
2026-02-22 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Join Grammy-winning “American Songster” Dom Flemons for an extraordinary journey through a century of American roots music.
As a co-founder of the legendary Carolina Chocolate Drops and a master of the banjo, guitar, and harmonica, Flemons brings a level of virtuosity and historical insight that has earned him multiple Emmy nominations and a U.S. Artists Fellowship.
His groundbreaking work on the Black Cowboys project sparked a national cultural movement, making this unique “Film & Songster” show a perfect fit for our historic stage.
​Don’t miss the chance to see this world-class scholar and multi-instrumentalist live!

Altan
2026-02-28 20:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Altan at The Franklin Theatre
“THE HOTTEST BAND IN THE CELTIC REALM” – The Boston Globe
“A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN WITH THE BEST TRADITIONAL IRISH BAND” – Dolly Parton on her collaboration with Altan on two of her albums Heartsongs (1994) and Little
Sparrow (2001)
The spirit and sound of Altan comes from the deep and rich musical tradition of their native Co. Donegal, in the North-West of Ireland.
The band was founded in the mid 80s, by Maire´ad Ní Mhaonaigh and Frankie Kennedy a fiddler and flute player. They soon recruited bouzouki player Ciaran Curran from Fermanagh, whose intricate counterpoint is at the centre of the Altan sound, and guitarist Mark Kelly from Dublin, whose mastery of a wide palette of guitar styles and harmonic vocabulary add a breadth and depth of colour. As a band, Altan played their first concert on June 1st 1985, in St. John’s Church in Listowel, Co. Kerry at the famous Listowel Writers Week.
Their first album, simply titled Altan was released in 1987 and quickly followed by Horse with A Heart, which saw the inclusion of Paul O’Saughnessy on fiddle. Paul had joined the band on its first US tours, lending his stunning virtuosity and in-depth knowledge of the Donegal style. He performed on the subsequent three albums. In 1992, the album Harvest Storm brought with it Da´ithi´ Sproule on guitar, himself one of the pioneers of guitar in Irish traditional and folk music, having played with the wonderful Skara Brae with the O’Domhnaill family and Buncrana native Ciaran Tourish who excelled in fiery counterpoint fiddle.
One of the band’s finest hours came with the release of Island Angel in 1993, which was recognized by Billboard World Music Charts as the second biggest selling world music album globally
in 1994 and in the same year, Altan performed for Bill Clinton at the White House. The band would play for US Presidents over the course of their career as well as accompanying Irish Presidents on
their state visits. Shortly after the release of this album, the legendary accordionist Dermot Byrne joined the band.
Sadly, on September 19th,1994, the band and wider world of music was dealt a devastating blow with the death of founding member Frankie Kennedy. His vision, artistry and sense of fun is still at
the heart of Altan and his legacy is carried and celebrated in every note. A record deal with Virgin Records followed in 1996, which catapulted the band on an extensive touring schedule over the subsequent decade. This period saw them working with many of the great American performers such as Dolly Parton, recording on her album Heartsongs (1994) and its follow up, Little Sparrow 2001; she returned the favour on the band’s record The Blue Idol in 2002 by duetting with Mairéad on the song The Pretty Young Girl.
The band have travelled with President Mary MacAleese and President Michael D. Higgins on state visits abroad to Japan, North Korea and Italy. President Higgins invited them to join him in his residence, A´ras an Uachtara´in in 2018 to celebrate their 30 years as a band. The Donegal County Council held a civic reception in their offices to mark the occasion in May 2018.
In 2006 the Irish Government also honoured Altan by putting them on an official postal stamp to celebrate their contribution to the Irish culture one of the highest honours to be bestowed on an
Irish citizen. Martin Tourish a past TG4 Young Musician of the Year, took the accordion seat in late 2013 and the band recorded their album The Widening Gyre in Nashville with many of the great Bluegrass and American performers, such as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Jerry Douglas and Alison Brown. This album explored the connections between Irish and Bluegrass music, a particularly special moment of which was performing at The Grand Ole Opry with Ricky Skaggs in 2016. In 2017, the band released their first book, Altan: The Tunes, based on a collection of 222 melodies that they collected recorded over their 30 year history. Martin Tourish transcribed the dance music and meticulously interviewed all the band members for additional stories and background information. Containing a detailed commentary on each of the tunes, it is the only collection of Donegal music currently in print.
Maire´ad Ni´ Mhaonaigh was awarded Donegal Person of the Year in 2008 and the coveted TG4-Traditional Musician of the Year Gradaim Ceoil (Music Award) 2017, for her musicianship and singing. The highest accolade which a traditional musician can receive in Ireland. Altan are currently working on a new album which should be launched by 2024. The band will feature the newest member of the band, Clare Friel, fiddler and singer who was awarded ‘Young Traditional Musician of the Year’ by TG4 in 2018.
This Spring the band has a new album called ‘Donegal’ which is on Compass Records, Nashville. The band have toured the world extensively from the USA, UK, Australia , Europe and Asia where
they have a growing audience.

The Music of ABBA
2026-03-01 15:00 - 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
The Music of ABBA | The Franklin Theatre | March 1, 2026 at 3 PM and 7 PM
Direct from Sweden The Music of ABBA
“The music of ABBA” are no strangers to the incomparable sound and look of Sweden’s greatest music export with meticulous attention to costumes, make-up, musical arrangements, movements and the singing, nothing is left to chance. Adding a few of Abba’s live traits such as great solos, musical numbers and a complete live band with back-up singers, ensures an extra dimension unheard of in most similar productions.
Our cast has performed with Mamma Mia The Musical and has also worked with original members of ABBA throughout the years and our costumes were designed by the same designer who designed ABBA’s original costumes.
Dance, sing along and enjoy the hits such as Dancing Queen, Chiquitita, Waterloo, Mamma Mia, The Winner Takes it All, Fernando, SOS, Take a Chance, Money Money Money, Knowing Me Knowing You, Super Trouper, Gimme Gimme Gimme, Voulez-Vous and many more.
With over 400 million records sold ABBA is Sweden’s biggest export ever! When the Musical “Mamma Mia” hit the American Stages in 2000 it became an instant classic and the ABBA tribute was born.
ABBA is the greatest pop group of all time, only compared to Elvis and The Beatles. ABBA started in 1971 and ended as a group in 1982. Their music continues to be passed on from generation to generation and are loved by the whole world.
Direct from Sweden The Music of ABBA will deliver the closest ABBA experience you’ll ever get with some of Sweden’s most experienced and talented singers and musicians playing 100% live. The audience will be on their feet the entire show!!

Jeffrey Steele & Friends
2026-03-02 19:00 | The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main Street, Franklin, 37064, United States
Join us for an evening to remember! The Alex LeVasseur Memorial Fund presents the 19th Annual Jeffrey Steele & Friends, an intimate evening hosted by Storme Warren and Casey LeVasseur with special guest performances by Jeffrey Steele and many more!**
Jeffrey Steele and his family created the Alex LeVasseur Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee after Steele’s 13-year-old son passed away January 28, 2007, in a tragic accident. Steele and his family are very involved with the program initiatives that support overlooked and at-risk youth in our community and beyond through programs, projects, and grants. Special VIP reception performance and performers to be announced soon!
For EXCLUSIVE VIP Seating and Sponsorship, please contact Rondal Richardson at The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee at rondal@cfmt.org or 615-321-4939
Brought to you by the Alex LeVasseur Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Presented by The Davisson & Wood Families.
Thank you to our generous sponsors for helping to make this evening possible.
**Performers are subject to change based on circumstances beyond our control.
