PHILADELPHIA, Miss. (Sep. 29, 2026) — The Congress of Country Music today announced the Ellis Theater’s winter season lineup, bringing a slate of celebrated country, Americana and blues artists to the historic venue in downtown Philadelphia as the venue celebrates its 100th anniversary.
“The Ellis Theater was built to bring people together around great music, and this season will do exactly that,” said Marty Stuart. “As we celebrate the theater’s 100th anniversary, it’s exciting to celebrate that history by filling the stage with artists who have who have shaped country, Americana, blues and roots music.”
The winter season kicks off Saturday, November 21, with The Oak Ridge Boys, followed by a run of shows stretching into spring 2027.
On Friday, January 29, Lyle Lovett and Hayes Carll will take the stage together for an intimate acoustic evening of stories and songs. The two will return the following night, Saturday, January 30, for a separate performance presented by Pearl River Resort.
Blues and rock fans can look forward to a co-headline show from Tab Benoit and Duane Betts on Thursday, February 25, followed by a solo acoustic performance from Martin Sexton on Thursday, March 18.
The season continues Friday, April 9, with Robert Earl Keen. The lineup closes out Friday, April 16, with country legend Larry Gatlin and special guest The Nelons.
“I’m excited for this next season and the opportunity to bring something special to the Ellis Theater,” said Stuart. “This lineup represents the range of artists and experiences we want audiences to find here, from legendary groups and country icons to incredible songwriters and musicians. As we celebrate 100 years of the Ellis, there is no better way to honor this place than by continuing to make it a home for great music.”
Built by the late Henry Bell Hutchinson, the Ellis Theater originally opened as a silent movie theater in November of 1926 and was converted to sound in the 1930s. After extensive renovations by the Congress of Country Music, the theater reopened in 2022 and has been a gathering place for generations of Mississippians.
Season ticket holders will have early access to tickets during a pre-sale running Friday, September 25, through Thursday, October 1. Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, October 2. Season tickets are also available for those interested in securing the same seat or seats for all season performances. For more information about the season lineup, upcoming performances, tickets or season tickets, visit ellistheater.org or contact the Ellis Box Office at 601-653-5358. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Arden Barnett at arden@ardenland.net or 601-292-7121.
About Marty Stuart’s Congress of Country Music
Marty Stuart’s Congress of Country Music is the spiritual home of country music, committed to touching lives by sharing experiences through exhibits, education and performances that inspire dreams for generations. The Congress aspires to touch lives through a real diversity of offerings in an authentic place unlike any other. Unique live performances, exhibits which honor both legends and newcomers and substantial educational offerings reach audiences across the state and country. Major performing artists are regularly featured alongside a solid season of events, integrated with revolving exhibits in collaboration with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Our educational offerings will touch all ages and can be accredited and recognized for their influence.
###