The Grand Ole Opry House is once again hosting shows. The country music landmark made its comeback with a star-packed concert event Tuesday night. Brad Paisley and Little Jimmy Dickens -- who just a few weeks ago brought the Opry's famed "circle" back to the facility -- launched the two-plus-hour show, leading an all-star performance of the classic "Will the Circle Be Unbroken." A host of other artists then proceeded to that "circle" to entertain the enthusiastic crowd and reintroduce the Grand Ole Opry House to the public. Blake Shelton, Trace Adkins, Martina McBride, Keith Urban, and Jason Aldean were also among those participating in the show, while Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, and Josh Turner performed as well.In addition, the audience was treated to special collaborations, including Martina McBride with Connie Smith, Josh Turner with Lorrie Morgan, Dierks Bentley with Del McCoury, and Charlie Daniels with Montgomery Gentry. Even President Obama took part in the celebration, contributing a special taped message to the show. The Opry also announced its newest member, with Trace Adkins extending an invite to Blake Shelton.
The Grand Ole Opry House had been closed since the devastating flood that struck Middle Tennessee in early May. The disaster saw the Cumberland River flow into the Opry House, and the stage was submerged under nearly four feet of water. The venue received an update with the renovation process, with a new projection system added to the rebuilt barn-themed backdrop. The linoleum is gone while the addition of wood, carpet, and leather is giving the Opry House a lush, more distinguished look. However, while the Opry House is now open the Opryland complex, including the Opryland Hotel and Convention Center and the Opry Mills shopping mall, is still closed. The hotel will re-open next month, but the Mall could remain closed into next year. And the smell of the Cumberland River still lingers in the air.
