Crowd-favorite Million Dollar Quartet Returns to the Springer

The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical inspired by a true story returns to the Springer Opera House May 3 through 18. On Dec. 4, 1956, four music legends–Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley–found themselves together at Sun Records in Memphis. Lucky for us, Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ‘n Roll,” pressed record. The rest is history–and, for us, a night of incredible music and story that will have you coming back for more.

Featuring over 20 rock ‘n roll classic hits, Million Dollar Quartet brings to life four of the most important figures in American musical history at a special snapshot in time. Each of these artists was at different stages of their careers, and as their story unfolds throughout the show, woven into hit after hit, we leave not only tapping our toes to the beat, but also better connected to artists who have provided so much of America’s modern soundtrack.

Million Dollar Quartet is performed all over the country, but ours is special, says Springer artistic director Paul Pierce. Paul grew up with these artists. Paul also cast the show. “My bar is high for believability,” he said, beaming with enthusiasm. Paul wasn’t looking just for phenomenal actors and musicians, though everyone cast are both. He also needed actors who embodied the artists they portray. It isn’t easy finding people who can take the stage and cause the audience to know immediately and instinctively, ‘yes, that’s Elvis, that’s Cash.’ But Paul has done exactly that.

The Springer put on Million Dollar Quarter last year, in the McClure Theatre. It sold out every night. Springer guests returned night after night to see the show again and again. This year, the production moves to the Main Stage and will be bigger than last year’s. Though more seats will be available, our advice is not to wait to purchase tickets.

“It was fun, just fun!” Paul exclaimed. “With talent like this on stage, you can’t go wrong.” We certainly agree. Shows are May 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m., and May 5, 12 and 19 at 2:30 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased at the Springer Box Office (103 East 10th Street, Columbus) or online at SpringerOperaHouse.org.

by Tom Ingram