Storms continued to rock Williamson County on Saturday night. But nothing could dampen the spirits of guests as they arrived at Liberty Hall at the Factory at Franklin for Studio Tenn Theatre Company’s One Night Only.
This annual fundraiser has become one of the area’s most anticipated arts events – not only honoring the company’s continued growth and creative artistry, but also the community that has helped to define it. And this year’s gathering marked a special milestone with Studio Tenn celebrating its 15th season.
Hosted by artistic director Patrick Cassidy, the evening offered a look back at the company’s origins, with filmed clips from company founders Philip Hall, Marguerite Lowell Hall, Matt Logan and Jake Speck, along with current leadership – including Cassidy and managing director Todd Morgan.
“Tonight is not just about celebrating the last 15 years, it’s also celebrating the people who made it happen,” Cassidy said, pointing to the generosity and commitment of local artists, donors and sponsors. “It’s about every person that ever served on the staff of Studio Tenn, all of the incredible people who are behind the scenes … it’s about all of our donors and patrons, our contributors and sponsors. It’s about everybody and anybody who ever bought a ticket to a Studio Tenn production. That’s why we’re here 15 years later, and that’s why we’ll survive another 15 years.”
Guests enjoyed cocktails and a delicious dinner buffet, with plenty of opportunity to mix and mingle before settling in for the star-studded program of entertainment. The evening featured show-stopping performances from Studio Tenn favorites like Piper Jones, Megan Murphy Chambers, Dustin Davis, Luke Hawkins, Patrick Thomas and John-Mark McGaha.
Cassidy also welcomed to the stage Broadway’s own Jessie Mueller, presenting the Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer with Studio Tenn’s Legacy Award, recognizing excellence in professional theater.
“You all are creating a legacy here,” said Mueller, a passionate arts education advocate and long-time supporter of organizations like Rosie’s Theater Kids, Broadway Cares and Chicago’s Season of Concern. “You’re creating memories for people, you’re creating a place for people to share that communal experience … I applaud you all for being here tonight, for doing what you’ve done for this theater. Thank you for making the arts a priority in your community.”
Mueller then treated the eager audience to beloved hits from her Broadway career, including “I Feel the Earth Move,” from Beautiful: The Carole King Musical; and “She Used to Be Mine,” from Waitress. She also joined the rest of the cast for the finale – a gorgeous rendition of “Seasons of Love,” from Rent.
As the evening wrapped up, Cassidy gave the enthusiastic crowd a sneak peek at Studio Tenn’s 2025-26 season. The complete lineup – which features a great mix of classic and contemporary shows – will be announced April 8 at studiotenn.com.