Shiny & New

The former Woolworth sit-in space is reimagined with a high-flying opening performance

Compiled by Melissa Mahanes / Photo by Mayter Scott

The newly imagined Woolworth Theatre is housed in the 1890’s former Woolworth building, known for itsrole in the lunch counter sit-ins during the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement. Country Music star Chuck Wicks,the entrepreneur and creative mind behind the Woolworth Theatre and its programming, partnered with 615Ventures and Rob Bellenfant in 2021 to turn this historic building into a reimagined theatre, lounge, andevent space. The inaugural performance run of Shiners was self-produced and developed by Wicks alongside the critically acclaimed choreography duo, NappyTabs. Shiners features seven breathtaking acts and three original music scores composed by Wicks, K.S. Rhoads, and local artist Emily West.

Shiners is a 75-minute action-packed story about the Shiner family, a family of moonshiners, and all the antics that ensue when they come together for the Shiner Family Reunion. The show’s production combines elements of Broadway theatre, comedy, and circus-style acrobatics as it interactively engages and excites the audience in an intimate setting. The production stars Wicks and two-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway actress Laura Osnes. “I wanted to blend what you would normally only see from a Vegas-style show on thestrip with Broadway appeal and comedic elements to create one super-unique yet highly relatable storyline,”said Wicks.

I wanted to create characters that we could root for just as we do when we get sucked into agood movie.

The state-of-the-art, 30,000 sq ft Woolworth Theatre has a capacity of approximately 400 and features a main stage, seven VIP boxes, a lounge, a kitchen, an event space, and multiple bars. While constructing the theatre and preserving its original elements, Wicks worked closely alongside the Nashville Public Library and the family of the late Rep. John Lewis (who was amongst the 1960’s protestors) to preserve its history and legacy.

Performances run on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30pm through March 31st, 2023 (18 and over).

Tickets are $65-$115. There is a VIP package available with a private box (with seating for 8), private bar andrestrooms, a full menu and dedicated wait staff. Email:vip@woolworththeatre.com. Woolworth Theatre/223 Rep. John Lewis Way North, Nashville, TN 37219 /(615) 445-7400/ woolworththeatre.com and shinersnashville.com