Ryman Auditorium Adding Outdoor Stage, Free Tour For Tennessee Residents

Nashville's famed "Mother Church" is reportedly planning to make a major addition to its venue.

The Ryman Auditorium announced plans to add an outdoor stage, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2020, FOX 17 News reports. The addition is part of Ryman Hospitality Properties' recent multi-year sponsorship deal with PNC Bank.

The small performance stage will be nestled on the Fourth Avenue side of the building, outside Cafe Lula and near the stairs leading down to the street, the Nashville Post reports.

The Ryman was initially reported to have interest in constructing a small outdoor stage on its property in March 2019, the Nashville Post reports.

PNC regional president for Tennessee Mike Johnson said the expansion doesn't intend to change the history of the Ryman, which was first opened in 1892, and the auditorium will remain untouched.

“Music is a great platform to connect people,” Johnson said via FOX 17 News. “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.”

The Ryman also plans to add a "Ryman Community Day" in which all Tennessee residents will be eligible for a free tour, FOX 17 News reports. Details are expected to be released at a later date.

The Ryman recently began holding limited in-person concerts for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic and proceeded to double the attendance after initial success.

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