The Ryman Auditorium Will Soon Have A New Outdoor Stage

Rendering of PNC Plaza Outdoor Stage | Courtesy of Centric Architectur

The Ryman Auditorium will soon get a permanent outdoor stage, called PNC Plaza, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. The stage will be set on the Fourth Avenue North side of the property, outside Cafe Lula, and will not touch the original 1892 auditorium. The Ryman first announced plans for an outdoor stage in 2019.

The stage is possible thanks to a new multi-year sponsorship deal between the Ryman and PNC Bank, making PNC the official banking sponsor for the Ryman. PNC will also become a presenting sponsor of Ryman Community Day, an annual event that invites Tennessee residents to experience the Ryman’s immersive daytime tour free of charge. All events at the Ryman follow strict COVID-19 operating plans developed in partnership with the company’s official wellness partner, Vanderbilt Health, that include physical distancing, limited in-venue capacity, mandatory masks for all guests and staff, as well as enhanced cleaning practices.

“PNC’s passion for music education and building strong, vibrant communities that engage in the arts aligns with our core values here at the Ryman,” said Gary Levy, Ryman Auditorium general manager. “This relationship will elevate experiences at the Ryman, both inside and out, throughout the year with the addition of the outdoor stage and enhanced activations during Ryman Community Day, to name a few. We’re excited to have PNC as our official financial sponsor.”

“Music is a great platform to connect people,” said Mike Johnson, PNC regional president for Tennessee. “It has the power to transcend boundaries of age, time and background. We hope the PNC Plaza at the Ryman will connect communities, neighborhoods and generations to create a stronger, more vibrant region.”