Ryman Auditorium Reveals New Elvis Presley Exhibit

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Ryman Auditorium’s “From Memphis to the Ryman” exhibit. Photo: Eric Ahlgrim

Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium has revealed “From Memphis to the Ryman,” a new Elvis Presley exhibit that commemorates 70 years since the legend’s one and only Grand Ole Opry performance at the famous venue on Oct. 2, 1954.

Ryman Auditorium’s “From Memphis to the Ryman” exhibit. Photo: Eric Ahlgrim

Narrated by Old Dominion‘s Matthew Ramsey, the exhibit revisits Presley’s show with lead guitarist Scotty Moore and double bass player Bill Black through a series of recollections, photographs and artifact displays.

“The Ryman is full of history and stories like this, and it’s great to be a part of telling the story of someone who’s had such a tremendous impact on music and culture, not to mention my own personal musical journey,” says Ramsey. “I’m honored to narrate this incredible exhibit marking the 70th anniversary of Elvis’s historic Opry debut at the Ryman.”

“From Memphis to the Ryman” tells the stories of Presley’s backstage nerves, his prediction of the audience’s reception and the aftermath of his rendition of Bill Monroe‘s “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” The artifacts included seek to give visitors a glimpse into the different facets of his life and legacy, including the 1954 contract Presley signed with Sun Records 64 days before he stepped onto the Ryman stage. The exhibit also displays the royal blue suit he donned for the occasion, designed by Richard Davis and tailored by Barry Certo, as well as personal items that belonged to influential figures who attended Presley’s Opry debut such as Monroe, Sam Phillips and Hank Snow.

“On behalf of the Ryman, I want to extend a special thank you to the Sam Phillips Family, Sam Phillips Recording Service, Graceland, Matthew Ramsey of Old Dominion and Peter Guralnick, who all played a part in bringing this story to life in a way it deserves to be told,” says Gary Levy, General Manager of Ryman Auditorium.

Entry to “From Memphis to the Ryman” is included in all daytime tour tickets. For more information, click here.

Liza Anderson
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