From the rhythm of Broadway show tunes to the thunderous laughter of top comedians, Nashville, Tennessee—home to the Tennessee State Tigers—isn't just Music City for country fans. The city also hosts an unforgettable lineup of live theatre productions and side-splitting comedy acts, offering plenty of entertainment off the football field. Whether you're a TSU student, alum, or just visiting the area, dive into the thriving stage culture of Nashville with this unique theatre and comedy guide tailored for Tiger pride.
Lin-Manuel Miranda's revolutionary hit
Hamilton debuted on Broadway in 2015 and reshaped modern musical theatre. Blending hip-hop, jazz, and R&B, the show chronicles the life of founding father Alexander Hamilton with lyrical genius. Songs like "My Shot" and "The Room Where It Happens" have become cultural touchstones. The musical has raked in 11 Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
Taylor Tomlinson is a rising star in stand-up comedy, known for her sharp wit and deeply personal storytelling. Beginning her career on church stages, she's since sold out venues nationwide and launched popular Netflix specials like
Quarter-Life Crisis and
Look At You. Her comedy mixes themes of anxiety, dating, and self-awareness with a millennial perspective. Tomlinson has been featured in
Forbes' 30 Under 30 in Hollywood & Entertainment.
Since its 2003 Broadway debut,
Wicked has enchanted audiences with the untold story of the witches of Oz. With iconic songs like "Defying Gravity" and "Popular," the Stephen Schwartz-composed musical reimagines the
Wizard of Oz from Elphaba and Glinda's perspectives. It has garnered three Tony Awards and remains one of Broadway's highest-grossing productions. The musical's themes of friendship, prejudice, and courage resonate deeply.
Comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld, best known for his eponymous sitcom, continues to tour the country delivering his signature observational humor. Seinfeld began as a stand-up in New York clubs and became a household name by the 1990s. His live performances, often riffing on daily minutiae, remain a masterclass in comedic timing. He's performed at the Beacon Theatre and continues to appear in Netflix's
Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
Victor Hugo's literary masterpiece
Les Misérables transformed into a musical triumph when it premiered in Paris in 1980 and on Broadway in 1987. With soaring ballads like "I Dreamed a Dream" and "On My Own," the story spans decades of revolution and redemption in 19th-century France. The original Broadway run won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It's one of the most enduring and powerful musicals in theatre history.
Jeff Arcuri has carved out a niche with his clever punchlines and socially observant humor. Originally from Michigan, he built his career in Chicago's vibrant comedy scene before appearing on
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Comedy Central. His comedy often pokes fun at human awkwardness and millennial confusion. Arcuri's growing following enjoys his mix of charm and sharp wit.
What if Juliet didn't die?
& Juliet flips the Shakespearean tragedy into a pop musical fantasy scored with Max Martin hits like "Since U Been Gone" and "Roar." It debuted in the West End in 2019 and on Broadway in 2022. Written by David West Read, the show was nominated for nine Tony Awards and celebrates female empowerment and reinvention. It's a vibrant, glitter-filled remix of classic literature.
Known as "Fluffy," Gabriel Iglesias is one of America's most beloved comedians, renowned for his clean humor and vibrant storytelling. Iglesias gained fame through specials like
I'm Not Fat… I'm Fluffy and has sold out arenas like Madison Square Garden. His routines often explore Latino culture, family life, and food. He's also voiced characters in animated films such as
Coco and
The Book of Life.
Disney's
Beauty and the Beast enchanted Broadway beginning in 1994, becoming its first animated film adaptation on stage. Alan Menken's unforgettable score includes "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast." The musical earned nine Tony nominations and has become a staple of theatrical revivals. This magical tale of love, acceptance, and transformation continues to captivate generations.
A Tennessee native, Nate Bargatze has emerged as one of the nation's most relatable comedians. With Netflix specials like
The Tennessee Kid and
The Greatest Average American, Bargatze's down-to-earth humor is dry, observational, and delightfully Southern. He has headlined sold-out tours and even performed for troops overseas. Bargatze's storytelling style and subtle delivery have made him a fan favorite across the U.S.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical debuted on Broadway in 2019 and won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Set in 1890s Paris, the show dazzles with a jukebox of pop hits—from Elton John to Lady Gaga—anchoring the passionate romance between Satine and Christian. Inspired by the 2001 film, its vibrant set and costumes are visual spectacles. The production is a lavish tribute to bohemian beauty and heartbreak.
MJ The Musical, which opened on Broadway in 2022, dives into the creative and personal world of Michael Jackson. It follows the King of Pop's 1992 Dangerous World Tour and features hits like "Billie Jean," "Smooth Criminal," and "Thriller." The show was nominated for 10 Tony Awards and won four, including Best Actor for Myles Frost. It celebrates Jackson's artistry while confronting the pressures of superstardom.
A buoyant musical with a powerful message,
Hairspray premiered on Broadway in 2002 and tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a teen who dreams of dancing on TV and promoting racial integration. The show includes hits like "You Can't Stop the Beat" and "Good Morning Baltimore." It won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Its blend of humor and social commentary makes it a timeless favorite.
First staged in 1975 and revived in 1996,
Chicago is Broadway's longest-running American musical. With its jazz-age setting and themes of crime and celebrity, it showcases iconic numbers like "Cell Block Tango" and "All That Jazz." The musical won six Tony Awards for its revival and a Grammy for Best Musical Show Album. Its satirical edge and sultry choreography continue to wow audiences.
Theatre Venues in the Nashville Area
Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC)
Built in 1980, TPAC is Nashville's premier venue for major touring Broadway shows and resident companies like Nashville Ballet and Nashville Opera. Located in downtown Nashville, TPAC has three stages, including the 2,472-seat Andrew Jackson Hall. Iconic performances such as
Hamilton,
Wicked, and
The Lion King have graced its stages.
Ryman Auditorium
Originally constructed in 1892, the Ryman is often called the "Mother Church of Country Music" but also hosts comedy shows, theatrical performances, and concerts. With a capacity of 2,362, the venue is known for its exceptional acoustics and rich entertainment legacy. Comedians like Jim Gaffigan and musicians from all genres have performed here.
Zanies Comedy Club
Founded in 1983, Zanies is Nashville's top venue for live comedy and has hosted legends such as Jerry Seinfeld and Kevin Hart. With seating for approximately 400 guests, its intimate setting allows for up-close comedic encounters. It continues to feature up-and-coming talent and seasoned performers weekly.
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Let the curtains rise and the laughter roll!
