Shell on Wheels ensures Memphians can access live entertainment
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Every Tuesday, as part of our Greater Memphis on a Mission series, we highlight organizations making Memphis better. This week, we caught up with a group that believes in making performing arts accessible to all.
The Mobile Shell is a replica of the Overton Park Shell– just half the size.
It’s part of the Shell on Wheels Outreach Program. Their goal is to build community through music in all areas of the Mid-South.
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Yolanda Kelly is their Outreach Manager. “Accessibility is a big part of our mission, as well as making sure everyone is able to access live entertainment.”
Even though most concerts at the Overton Park Shell are free, transportation can be a barrier.
“Because our shows are at night, the bus routes cut off so people are not able to get back home. So we’re able to take that experience directly to them,” said Kelly. That’s why you’ll find The Mobile Shell in Frasyer and South Memphis.
When we caught up with Kelly and their production team, they were offering on-stage experiences to students at the Agricenter as part of the Junior Achievement Inspire Event.
“I think it’s so important for children to be exposed to music and live entertainment,” said Kelly, “especially in the way we are able to do it on The Mobile Shell. They are able to see the production, lights, sound and other aspects of live entertainment.”
“It felt very fun to see everyone sing along with you,” said Madison Jones, an eighth grader at Haywood Middle School. Her classmate, Sania Hill, felt the same excitement. “I feel more confident because everyone was hyping me up. And it’s just a good experience to get out there. Like you’re a real superstar.”
The organization is also planting a few music seeds along the way while showing students the inner workings of a live performance.
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“I think they’re able to see that even if you’re not a performer or a rapper, you can still have a career in music,” Kelly said. “My career is in music and I never thought I’d ever come back to that outside of being in choir or band in high school. So, being able to come back and have a career in music, it’s been fun. I love sharing it with students.”
That is why Brown Missionary Baptist Church and The Mid-South Genesis CDC donated $1,000 to Shell on Wheels because music is vital in a city like Memphis. It creates a community and makes sure everyone has access to live entertainment.
For more information about Shell on Wheels, click here.
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