Through Sept. 26: Strong Inside at Nashville
Children’s Theatre, 25 Middleton St.
It’s not unusual for Nashville Children’s Theatre to celebrate new works. In fact, five out of this season’s six productions are world premieres for young audiences. But with Strong Inside, NCT also celebrates a true Nashville hero. Based on the New York Times bestseller by Andrew Maraniss and adapted for the stage by Tyrone L. Robinson, Strong Inside follows the story of Perry Wallace, who made history as the first African American to play college basketball in the deeply segregated Southeastern Conference. The star Vanderbilt athlete would go on to become a successful lawyer, educator and civil rights activist. “This is such a wonderful opportunity to put Nashville onstage, with an inspiring true story that reflects our community at a real turning point in history,” says NCT’s executive artistic director Ernie Nolan. “It’s a powerful story, and we’re thrilled that Perry’s legacy will live on with all the young people who see this show.” Directed by Nolan, along with Tamiko Robinson Steele, the cast includes Gerold Oliver, James Rudolph II and Will Henke.
Also of note:
Sept. 21 & 23: Pagliacci at TPAC's Jackson Hall, 505 Deaderick St.
Sept. 22-24: Firebird (with Justin Peck and Jiří Kylián) at TPAC's Polk Theater, 505 Deaderick St.
Oct. 13-28: Ride the Cyclone at Street Theatre Company, 4003 Indiana Ave.
Oct. 19-29: Million Dollar Quartet at Studio Tenn, 230 Franklin Road
Nov. 4-Dec. 17: Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Nashville Children’s Theatre
Nov. 9-1: Rennie Harris’ Rome & Jewels at OZ Arts
Nov. 30-Dec. 10: Geoff Sobelle’s Food at OZ Arts
From the Frist’s ‘Multiplicity’ to concerts, theater, films and more, here are the most promising events of the season
