#United States #Columbus #Ray Charles #Palace Theatre

Palace Theatre Brings Ray Charles' Music Back for a Special Centennial Concert

The Palace Theatre in Columbus, Ohio, is marking its century-long legacy by hosting a remarkable one-night-only concert dedicated to the timeless music of Ray Charles. Scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., this unique event dubbed Palace 100: The Genius of Ray Charles, promises to be a memorable evening, bringing both nostalgia and celebration to the stage where Charles graced in his illustrious career.

A Stellar Lineup of Artists

Featuring a blend of musical genres, the concert is headlined by host Paul Shaffer, noted for his significant collaboration with Ray Charles on various platforms including Saturday Night Live. Shaffer’s involvement adds layers of authenticity and personal connection to the performance. Alongside him, an all-star roster of talent will grace the stage, including:

• - Jackson Dean, a rising star in country music
• - Etienne Charles, a celebrated jazz trumpeter and Guggenheim Fellow known for innovative Afro-Caribbean jazz fusion.
• - Several Grammy Award-winning artists including Patti Austin, Aloe Blacc, and Lisa Fischer.

Each artist in the lineup contributes to showcasing the diverse musical influences that Ray Charles explored throughout his life, spanning R&B, jazz, gospel, and country. The event also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of both national talent and local Columbus musicians, creating a vibrant tapestry of sounds.

Honoring a Legacy

CAPA's Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Peter Keiser, summarizing the significance of this event said, "Ray Charles represents the kind of musical excellence that transcends genres, generations and boundaries." His music resonates deeply, serving not just as entertainment, but as a bridge between past and present generations—inextricably linking the theatre's rich history with a contemporary audience.

Concert Details

• - Event Name: Palace 100: The Genius of Ray Charles
• - Date: November 14, 2026
• - Time: 7:30 p.m.
• - Location: Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio
• - Host: Paul Shaffer
• - Producer: Gregg Field
• - Featured Artists: Aloe Blacc, Billy Valentine, Blessing Offor, Jackson Dean, Patti Austin, Lisa Fischer, Etienne Charles, Monica Mancini.
• - Ticket Price: Starting at $62.50, available at the CAPA Ticket Center or online at capa.com.

It's important to note that this concert is a one-time event created solely for the Palace Theatre's centennial celebration, ensuring its exclusivity.

A Historical Venue

Opened in 1926 and initially serving as a vaudeville house, the Palace Theatre has hosted a multitude of performances over its majestic 100-year history. With its rich legacy, the theatre aims to celebrate this milestone by resurrecting the music of Ray Charles, who captivated audiences there for decades, with his last performance occurring on June 6, 1992.

An Evening to Remember

The concert will not only spotlight Charles’ classic hits but will also feature a special performance of America the Beautiful, emphasizing his profound impact on American music culture. Additionally, it highlights collaborations with local organizations such as the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and The Ohio State University School of Music.

Bringing together local and national artists reflects the community's appreciation for Ray Charles' contributions to music. As noted by producer Gregg Field, this concert symbolizes the enduring relationship the Palace Theatre has with both its performers and audiences, solidifying its place within the culture of Columbus. "Having worked with Ray for many years, I can't imagine a more powerful way to honor his legacy and celebrate 100 years of this extraordinary theatre," he stated.

Indeed, this extraordinary centennial concert will serve as a testament to the Palace Theatre’s commitment to not only entertaining but also honoring the musical greats that have helped shape the landscape of American music. For more information on this concert and other celebratory events, visit www.capa.com/100-celebration-palace.