Ryman Auditorium Debuts ‘Unexpected Company’ Exhibit

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Photo: Eric Ahlgrim

The Ryman Auditorium recently debuted its new exhibit, “Unexpected Company,” which celebrates the wide variety of guests who have taken the Ryman stage.

The exhibit is now open as part of the Ryman’s daytime tour experience. Tickets and tour information are available here.

The collection features rare artifacts and archival materials, including Harry Houdini’s handcuffs used during his 1924 Nashville performance; Jackie Robinson’s personal memorabilia and writings tied to his 1962 appearance at the Ryman, where he spoke to more than 1,200 attendees about the power of the vote and civil rights; a gown worn by Aretha Franklin commemorating her two Ryman performances in 2010 and 2011; Clint Eastwood’s hat and amended film script from the 1982 movie Honkytonk Man, shot on location at the Ryman; a Rowlf the Dog puppet, celebrating his Ryman appearances on The Jimmy Dean Show; and a costume worn by Jessica Lange while portraying Patsy Cline in the 1985 biopic Sweet Dreams, filmed at the Ryman.

Photo: Eric Ahlgrim

Photo: Eric Ahlgrim

Lauryn Sink
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