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. 

Since its founding, the Overton Park Shell played a crucial role in Memphis' rice to critical acclaim as the epicenter of blues and birthplace of rock 'n' roll. In 1954, the Shell hosted the first-ever public performance of a young Elvis Presley, who opened for headliner Slim Whitman and instantly stole the show in what music historians call the first-ever rock and roll show. 

In the years since, countless legends have taken the stage: 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. 

Our mission is building a stronger Memphis community through music, finding common ground in a diverse audience. 

Volunteer

We are always on the lookout for enthusiastic, dedicated volunteers who want to use their love of music and community to enhance our visitor experience here at the Overton Park Shell. We need your help in bringing our multi-ethnic community together through music. 

• Puppy Bar Barktender
  • The Puppy Bar is the social spot on the lawn for pups and their humans! Barktenders provide our pet friends with water, treats and more. 
• Survey Squad
  • The Survey Squad is a vital part of our volunteer team. This team will be responsible for canvassing the lawn and encouraging our guests to complete a brief survey about their experience at the Shell. These surveys provide valuable information to keep the quality and overall experience at the Shell at the highest level.
• Bucket Brigade
  • One very important way that we pay for our free concerts every year is through the generous donations of our audience members. Each concert, the Bucket Brigade carries donation buckets and our DipJar into the audience to collect donations. The 'bucket' is a historic, tradition of the Shell that dates back to our first performing arts events when we opened as the Memphis Open Air Theatre (MOAT) in 1936!