Autumn Arts & Entertainment: Franklin Springs' Gateway to a Season of Live Performances
As the air turns crisp in Franklin Springs and the leaves begin to scatter shades of amber across Emmanuel University's campus, the surrounding region comes alive with the vibrant hum of live entertainment. This fall, the communities around northeast Georgia are welcoming an exciting mix of world-class musicians, legendary bands, and acclaimed theatrical productions that will inspire audiences of every age. From the dazzling lights of Atlanta to the intimate charm of Athens, the season promises unforgettable nights filled with music, storytelling, and artistry. Whether you're drawn to the electric energy of a sold-out arena show, the emotional sweep of a Broadway-caliber musical, or the thrill of seeing a chart-topping artist for the first time, there's no shortage of experiences waiting just beyond Franklin Springs.
Sabrina Carpenter has grown from her early Disney Channel days into a pop powerhouse with a distinct voice and a knack for relatable storytelling. Launching her music career with the 2014 EPÂ
Can't Blame a Girl for Trying, she quickly transitioned into a full-fledged artist with albums likeÂ
Singular Act I & IIÂ and her more recent hit-packed releaseÂ
Emails I Can't Send. Known for catchy singles like "Nonsense" and "Feather," Carpenter blends pop hooks with sharp lyricism, earning her a dedicated international fan base. She has toured alongside acts like Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift, proving her ability to hold her own on massive stages. This fall, her headlining shows continue to sell out quickly, solidifying her as one of pop's most magnetic live performers.
Formed in the late 1990s by siblings Lzzy and Arejay Hale, Halestorm quickly rose in the hard rock scene with their fierce sound and electrifying performances. Their 2012 albumÂ
The Strange Case Of… produced the Grammy-winning single "Love Bites (So Do I)," making them one of the few female-fronted bands to earn such recognition in the metal and hard rock genres. Known for their relentless touring schedule, Halestorm has shared stages with rock legends like Alice Cooper and Shinedown. Their live shows are renowned for high energy, blistering guitar solos, and powerhouse vocals that make every concert a thrilling spectacle. Fans can expect setlists that span from early anthems to their latest albumÂ
Back from the Dead.
Billy Strings has redefined modern bluegrass with his virtuosic guitar skills and genre-blending style. Bursting onto the national scene in the mid-2010s, Strings has since won multiple awards, including the Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album forÂ
Home in 2021. Known for blending traditional Appalachian sounds with jam-band improvisation, his concerts often stretch songs into hypnotic, extended performances. Tracks like "Dust in a Baggie" and "Away from the Mire" have become fan favorites for their storytelling and instrumental brilliance. Touring extensively across the country, Billy Strings has played sold-out shows at venues both intimate and grand, cementing his reputation as one of the most important bluegrass artists of his generation.
Chris Brown has been a dominant force in R&B and pop since his 2005 self-titled debut album. With chart-toppers like "Forever," "With You," and "Under the Influence," Brown's smooth vocals and impeccable dance moves have made him one of the most dynamic live performers of his era. Over the years, he's received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards. His tours are known for blending high-energy choreography with heartfelt ballads, offering fans a full-spectrum concert experience. Brown's most recent albums have showcased his ability to stay relevant in a constantly changing music landscape, appealing to both longtime followers and new listeners.
Since their formation in 1976, Foreigner has delivered some of the most enduring hits in classic rock history. With anthems like "I Want to Know What Love Is," "Cold as Ice," and "Juke Box Hero," the band has sold over 80 million records worldwide. Their blend of rock, pop, and blues elements has made them a staple on classic rock radio for decades. Touring relentlessly, Foreigner continues to pack venues with multi-generational audiences singing every word. Their shows are a masterclass in rock nostalgia, often featuring extended solos and audience participation that turn concerts into communal celebrations of timeless music.
The Jonas Brothers made a splash in the mid-2000s with their infectious pop-rock sound and Disney Channel fame. After a hiatus, their 2019 reunion albumÂ
Happiness Begins debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, fueled by the hit single "Sucker." Known for tight harmonies and high-energy performances, the brothers have matured their sound while retaining the upbeat charm that won them millions of fans worldwide. Their tours are elaborate productions featuring dynamic stage designs, costume changes, and a setlist blending old favorites with new hits. This fall's shows promise to be a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans of all ages.
Emerging from Chicago's vibrant music scene, Chance the Rapper broke industry norms by achieving massive success without signing to a major label. His 2016 albumÂ
Coloring Book earned him three Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album—the first streaming-only album to win that honor. Known for his uplifting lyrics and gospel-infused hip-hop, Chance delivers performances that feel like community gatherings, blending rap, soul, and spoken word. Hits like "No Problem" and "Same Drugs" have become anthems for fans who appreciate his positive messaging and inventive musical style. His live shows are a mix of high-energy rap verses and heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with audiences.
New Zealand's Lorde burst onto the global stage with her debut single "Royals," a minimalist pop track that won the Grammy for Song of the Year in 2014. Her introspective songwriting and genre-defying production have made albums likeÂ
Pure Heroine andÂ
Melodrama critical and commercial successes. Known for her captivating stage presence, Lorde's concerts often feature striking visuals, dramatic lighting, and emotive performances that draw audiences into her world. With her 2021 albumÂ
Solar Power, she explored more organic, sun-soaked sounds, further proving her willingness to evolve. This fall's performances promise a journey through her varied and influential career.
Lainey Wilson's rise in country music has been nothing short of meteoric. With a sound that blends traditional country storytelling with modern flair, Wilson has earned accolades including CMA's New Artist of the Year. Her breakthrough hit "Things a Man Oughta Know" showcased her lyrical depth and authentic voice, while her follow-up tracks have solidified her as a new powerhouse in the genre. Touring alongside major acts like Luke Combs, Wilson brings heartfelt authenticity to the stage, connecting with fans through both her music and her down-to-earth personality.
Papa Roach has been a mainstay in the rock and alternative scene since their 2000 breakthrough albumÂ
Infest. The single "Last Resort" became an anthem of the era, blending rap, rock, and raw emotion. Over the years, the band has evolved their sound while maintaining a loyal fan base. Their live shows are intense, high-octane experiences where frontman Jacoby Shaddix commands the crowd with boundless energy. With recent albums likeÂ
Ego Trip, Papa Roach proves they can still deliver both aggressive riffs and catchy choruses.
Laufey's emergence as a jazz-pop sensation has brought fresh attention to classic styles. Combining her Icelandic and Chinese heritage with influences from Ella Fitzgerald and Chet Baker, she crafts songs that feel timeless yet modern. Tracks like "From the Start" and "Valentine" have gone viral, drawing younger audiences to jazz-inspired music. Her live performances are intimate affairs, often featuring her on guitar or piano, delivering warm, velvety vocals that captivate the room. Laufey's growing success marks a revival of sophisticated, romantic music for a new generation.
NBA YoungBoy has become one of hip-hop's most prolific and streamed artists, releasing multiple projects each year. His raw, confessional style resonates with fans who connect with his unfiltered storytelling. Tracks like "Outside Today" and "No Smoke" have amassed hundreds of millions of streams, making him a dominant force on the charts. Despite his young age, he's built a reputation for intense, emotionally charged performances. His concerts blend hard-hitting beats with moments of vulnerability, offering a complete portrait of an artist constantly in motion.
Lin-Manuel Miranda'sÂ
Hamilton revolutionized Broadway by blending hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes to tell the story of America's founding father Alexander Hamilton. Premiering in 2015, the musical swept the Tony Awards and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Songs like "My Shot" and "The Room Where It Happens" have entered the cultural lexicon, and its original cast recording remains a best-seller. Touring productions continue to sell out across the country, bringing this innovative piece of theater to audiences far beyond New York City.
Disney'sÂ
Beauty and the Beast has enchanted audiences since its 1994 Broadway debut, adapted from the beloved animated film. Featuring timeless songs like "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast," the stage version adds new numbers and expands on the film's emotional core. Lavish costumes and intricate set designs transport audiences to the magical world of Belle, the Beast, and their enchanted castle. Touring productions have played worldwide, making it one of the most enduring family-friendly musicals in theater history.
Since its 2003 debut,Â
Wicked has offered a fresh perspective on the Land of Oz, telling the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. With Stephen Schwartz's soaring score, including "Defying Gravity" and "For Good," the musical has become a modern classic. Its themes of friendship, identity, and challenging perceptions resonate with audiences of all ages. The production's striking visual design and powerhouse performances have made it one of Broadway's longest-running hits.
State Farm Arena – Atlanta, GA
Opened in 1999 and renovated in 2018, State Farm Arena is home to the NBA's Atlanta Hawks and a premier concert venue with a seating capacity of around 21,000. The arena has hosted performances by legends such as Elton John, Beyoncé, and Bruce Springsteen. Its modern upgrades include expanded concourses and improved sightlines, ensuring a top-notch fan experience. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, it's a key stop for major touring acts year-round.
Classic Center Theatre – Athens, GA
The Classic Center Theatre, opened in 1995, serves as a cultural hub for Athens and the surrounding communities. With a seating capacity of approximately 2,100, it offers an intimate yet grand setting for concerts, Broadway tours, and community events. Notable performances have included appearances by Willie Nelson, Tony Bennett, and touring productions ofÂ
Les Misérables. Its location in the vibrant college town of Athens adds to the energy of every event.
Bon Secours Wellness Arena – Greenville, SC
Since opening in 1998, Bon Secours Wellness Arena has become one of the Southeast's top venues, with a seating capacity of up to 19,000 for concerts. It has welcomed a wide range of performers, from Paul McCartney to Metallica, showcasing its versatility. The arena is known for its excellent acoustics and fan-friendly amenities. Positioned in downtown Greenville, it draws audiences from across Georgia and the Carolinas.
Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park – Atlanta, GA
This historic outdoor venue, originally opened in 1944, offers a unique concert experience under the stars with a seating capacity of around 6,900. Known for its intimate atmosphere and scenic surroundings, the amphitheatre has hosted artists like Aretha Franklin, Sting, and John Legend. Its picnic-style seating and relaxed vibe make it a beloved spot for summer and fall concerts. Located in Atlanta's Buckhead neighborhood, it combines natural beauty with world-class entertainment.
Special Offer for Lions Fans
This fall, make the most of your live entertainment experiences with TicketSmarter. Emmanuel University Lions fans can enjoy an exclusive discount—use promo codeÂ
LIONS5Â at checkout to save on your next ticket purchase. Whether it's a stadium-sized rock show, a Broadway tour, or a night under the stars at a local amphitheatre, your next unforgettable night out is just a click away.
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