From Movie Palace to Performing Arts Center
On Thanksgiving Day in 1929, it cost only six cents for admission to the Saenger Theater movie palace in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Today, the 978-seat Saenger has become a celebrated fixture in the heart of historic downtown, surrounded by an array of award-winning, locally owned restaurants, all within walking distance.
Learn Our History
From Movie Palace to Performing Arts Center
On Thanksgiving Day in 1929, it cost only six cents for admission to the Saenger Theater movie palace in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Today, the 978-seat Saenger has become a celebrated fixture in the heart of historic downtown, surrounded by an array of award-winning, locally owned restaurants, all within walking distance.
From Movie Palace to Performing Arts Center
On Thanksgiving Day in 1929, it cost only six cents for admission to the Saenger Theater movie palace in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Today, the 978-seat Saenger has become a celebrated fixture in the heart of historic downtown, surrounded by an array of award-winning, locally owned restaurants, all within walking distance.
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Upcoming Events
Zach Williams with Cochren & Co and Christian Hohn: Revival Nights
An unforgettable night of faith-filled music is coming to town as Zach Williams headlines the Zach Williams Revival Nights Tour on November 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the Hattiesburg Saenger Theater.
Zach Williams’ Revival Nights Tour is set to bring a powerful, gritty energy to audiences again this fall, hitting 21 cities across the country. Known for his signature blend of country, rock, and gospel, Williams will headline a run of shows designed to feel both personal and impactful, taking place in theatres and performing arts centers nationwide.
Fans can expect a night rooted in authenticity and connection, with Zach Williams delivering the soul and conviction behind songs like “Chain Breaker,” “There was Jesus,” “Old Church Choir,” and “Rescue Story.” Joining the tour, Cochren & Co. will bring a driving sound and fan favorites including “Church (Take Me Back),” “One Day,” and “Running Home,” while singer/songwriter Christian Hohn opens the night with new music that reflects his story of faith, fitting seamlessly into the tour’s themes of everyday life, struggle, and redemption.
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
USM University Forum: Grateful Dead Archivist David Lemieux & The Stolen Faces
Join The University of Southern Mississippi’s University Forum for a free Grateful Dead celebration at the historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Tuesday, November 17.
The evening begins with a downtown block party at 5:15 p.m., followed by a special presentation at 6:30 p.m. from David Lemieux, the Grateful Dead’s official audiovisual archivist and legacy manager. Lemieux will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at the band’s history, music and legendary archives.
At approximately 8 p.m., Nashville-based The Stolen Faces take the stage, bringing more than a decade of experience exploring the Grateful Dead catalog through the improvisation and spontaneity that defined the band’s iconic live performances.
Presented by University Forum in partnership with the City of Hattiesburg, the Saenger Theater and Rock 104, this special downtown event combines music, storytelling and community celebration.
Free and open to the public. Wristbands distributed at the door.
Block Party & Doors at 5:15 PM | David Lemieux at 6:30 PM | The Stolen Faces at 8:00 PM
Hattiesburg Music Showcase
The inaugural Hattiesburg Music Showcase will take place Friday, November 20, 2026, and will bring four Hattiesburg-area acts together for one night celebrating the city’s incredible local music scene.
The inaugural lineup includes:
6:30 p.m. – Drew Young Band
7:30 p.m. – Jacob Arnold & The Bird Dogs
8:30 p.m. – Grits & Greens
9:30 p.m. – Blue Mountain
The event was created to give local musicians a premier opportunity to perform on the historic Saenger stage while celebrating Hattiesburg’s long history of producing exceptional music. Hundreds of community nominations were submitted during the nomination process, highlighting the depth and diversity of talent throughout the area.
Drew Young Band will open the evening with a blend of Americana, country, folk and rock & roll. Hattiesburg songwriter Drew Young has more than 90 published songs and more than six million worldwide streams.
Jacob Arnold & The Bird Dogs, formed in Hattiesburg in 2020, combine Old School Country, Rock 'N' Roll and Red Dirt Country influences. The band released its full-length album Empty Bottles in 2022.
Grits & Greens bring their unique “psychedelic y’alternative” sound to the showcase, blending Southern rock, progressive rock, punk, soul and funk. The Hattiesburg band recently recorded new music at the legendary Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Closing the evening will be Blue Mountain, led by Hattiesburg’s own Cary Hudson and Laurie Stirratt. Originally formed in 1993, the influential roots-rock band helped establish Mississippi as a major force in the alternative-country and roots-rock movement. The band is reuniting especially for the inaugural showcase.
Tickets are $25, $35 and $45, plus applicable taxes and fees.
Doors at 5:30 PM | Show at 6:30 PM
John Crist LIVE!
John Crist is headed back to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on December 4th, 2026!
Combining sharp wit, tactfully-unhinged stand-up and viral sketches, John Crist is one of today’s most distinctive, fastest-rising comedic voices. With more than one billion video views and 8 million followers, Crist consistently ranks among Pollstar’s Top 10 Global Touring Comedians. Following his nearly sold out Jokes For Humans Tour in 2025, Crist kicked off his national John Crist Live! Tour in January 2026, which included a sold-out show at Nashville’s Opry House. He’ll continue to bring his standup to fans across the country, announcing 25 additional fall dates for the John Crist Live! Tour.
The Georgia native’s latest comedy special, John Crist: Emotional Support has surpassed 4 million views on Youtube alone, with clips from the special reaching millions more. Crist hosts the pop-culture-meets-comedy podcast Net Positive with John Crist and has appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, SEC Network, SHERRI, CBS Sports, Barstool Sports and Theo Von’s This Past Weekend.
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
World Ballet Company: The Nutcracker
A Magical Holiday Adventure Awaits!
Celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a heartwarming ballet that brings dreams into reality for audiences of all ages.
Join Marie on Christmas Eve as her beloved Nutcracker springs to life, leading her on a wondrous journey filled with swirling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and a visit to the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets.
Featuring 40 world-class dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and breathtaking hand-crafted sets, World Ballet Company’s enchanting production is the perfect way to make holiday memories together.
Gather the whole family and step into a world where toys come alive, magic fills the air, and every moment is touched with holiday wonder!
Duration: 1hr 40 min (including 20-minute intermission)
Audience: 2+
WBC Website: https://worldballetcompany.com/hattiesburg2
World Ballet Company - Ballet Everywhere, Ballet For All.
*About the Company: Based in Los Angeles, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company presents the most beloved and iconic ballets of our time in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries.
To date, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities, reaching an audience of more than 500,000 fans.
Make it a group experience! Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more: worldballetcompany.com/group-tickets.
Doors at 1:00 PM | Show at 2:00 PM
World Ballet Company: The Nutcracker
A Magical Holiday Adventure Awaits!
Celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a heartwarming ballet that brings dreams into reality for audiences of all ages.
Join Marie on Christmas Eve as her beloved Nutcracker springs to life, leading her on a wondrous journey filled with swirling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and a visit to the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets.
Featuring 40 world-class dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and breathtaking hand-crafted sets, World Ballet Company’s enchanting production is the perfect way to make holiday memories together.
Gather the whole family and step into a world where toys come alive, magic fills the air, and every moment is touched with holiday wonder!
Duration: 1hr 40 min (including 20-minute intermission)
Audience: 2+
WBC Website: https://worldballetcompany.com/hattiesburg2
World Ballet Company - Ballet Everywhere, Ballet For All.
*About the Company: Based in Los Angeles, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company presents the most beloved and iconic ballets of our time in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries.
To date, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities, reaching an audience of more than 500,000 fans.
Make it a group experience! Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more: worldballetcompany.com/group-tickets.
Doors at 5:00 PM | Show at 6:00 PM
John Crist Live!
John Crist is headed back to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on December 6th, 2026!
Combining sharp wit, tactfully-unhinged stand-up and viral sketches, John Crist is one of today’s most distinctive, fastest-rising comedic voices. With more than one billion video views and 8 million followers, Crist consistently ranks among Pollstar’s Top 10 Global Touring Comedians. Following his nearly sold out Jokes For Humans Tour in 2025, Crist kicked off his national John Crist Live! Tour in January 2026, which included a sold-out show at Nashville’s Opry House. He’ll continue to bring his standup to fans across the country, announcing 25 additional fall dates for the John Crist Live! Tour.
The Georgia native’s latest comedy special, John Crist: Emotional Support has surpassed 4 million views on Youtube alone, with clips from the special reaching millions more. Crist hosts the pop-culture-meets-comedy podcast Net Positive with John Crist and has appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, SEC Network, SHERRI, CBS Sports, Barstool Sports and Theo Von’s This Past Weekend.
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
A Celtic Christmas
Direct from New York’s Off - Broadway and London's West End, the internationally acclaimed A Taste of Ireland Company presents its holiday spectacular, A Celtic Christmas, and for one night the Hattiesburg Saenger fills with the warmth of an Irish Christmas.
Prepare to be enchanted as some of the world's finest Irish dancers and musicians bring the spirit of Christmas to life: melodic folk mash-ups, acapella tap battles, and heartwarming storytelling, with all your favorite carols woven through traditional tunes and heartfelt ballads. Performed by the finest World champion talent mixed with seasoned professionals, including stars from Éireann's West End, Lord of the Dance, and Riverdance, it's a show that will make you laugh, cry, and sing into the night.
This is Christmas as the Irish have always celebrated it: warm, alive, and meant to be shared. The kind of night where everyone in the room leaves talking about the same moment, and takes a slice of Irish Christmas home with them.
Doors at 6:30 PM | Show at 7:30 PM
Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas
Emery Entertainment presents Rocky Mountain High Experience®: A John Denver Christmas starring Rick Schuler at the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Friday, December 11!
Get ready to fall in love with the holidays all over again! Rocky Mountain High Experience®: A John Denver Christmas whisks you back to the unforgettable 1970s - a golden era when John Denver’s music lit up the airwaves and warmed hearts across America.
Acclaimed performer Rick Schuler brings it all roaring back to life in a holiday concert you’ll be talking about for months. Sing along to the Denver classics you know by heart: “Rocky Mountain High,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Annie’s Song” and “Sunshine On My Shoulders”, each one more stirring than the last.
Then prepare for pure holiday magic as the evening pays loving tribute to Denver’s legendary Christmas specials. Picture the warmth of seasonal treasures like ”Aspenglow,” “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World,” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” the perfect soundtrack to the most wonderful time of the year.
Make this Christmas one to remember with the music of John Denver!
Doors at 6:30 PM | Show at 7:30 PM
One Night in Memphis: #1 Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash
The Hattiesburg Saenger Theater will welcome One Night in Memphis: #1 Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash on Saturday, January 9, 2027, at 7 p.m.
Celebrating one of the most legendary jam sessions in music history, One Night in Memphis: #1 Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash recreates the unforgettable December 4, 1956, gathering at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, when Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash came together for an impromptu musical session that would become known as the “Million Dollar Quartet.”
One Night in Memphis: #1 Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash brings that legendary night back to life through the music that defined an era. Audiences will hear classic hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Hound Dog” and many more.
One Night in Memphis: #1 Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash features more than 90 minutes of rockabilly, country, gospel and 1950s rock and roll, performed live by nationally recognized talent and backed by an authentic, energetic rockabilly band.
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
Saenger Education Series: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Join us at the Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Tuesday, January 12, 2027 at 10:00 a.m. (NEW TIME) for a special performance of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, presented as part of the Saenger Education Series and designed for middle and high school students.
Enter a world of magic, mischief, romance and mistaken identity as four young lovers, a group of amateur actors and the mischievous fairy Puck become tangled in a magical night in the forest. New Stage Theatre’s adaptation brings Shakespeare’s classic story to life in a way that connects with today’s students.
🎟️ Tickets are just $5 per person! Reservations are required. Schools and educators can reserve seats by emailing saenger@hattiesburg.org.
The Saenger Education Series is presented by the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, FestivalSouth, and the Hattiesburg Arts Council.
Saenger Education Series: School House Rock Live!
Get ready to learn, laugh and sing along at School House Rock Live! at the Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Tuesday, January 19, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. with as part of the Saenger Education Series! This energetic production is designed for elementary and middle school students.
Based on the beloved educational TV series, Schoolhouse Rock Live! brings familiar songs and memorable lessons to the stage, covering everything from grammar and math to science, history and civics. It’s a fun, high-energy way to show students that learning can be an adventure!
🎟️ Tickets are just $5 per person! Reservations are required. Schools and educators can reserve seats by emailing saenger@hattiesburg.org.
The Saenger Education Series is presented by the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, FestivalSouth, and the Hattiesburg Arts Council.
Be Like Blippi Tour!
Get ready to see the world a little more curiously! The Be Like Blippi Tour is coming to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Friday, January 22, 2027!
Join Blippi and his best friend Meekah live on stage for an exciting, interactive adventure designed especially for children ages 2–7. Families will experience a high-energy show filled with music, dancing, play, surprises and real-world discovery as Blippi and Meekah inspire kids to explore their curiosity and try something new.
The Be Like Blippi Tour brings the beloved Blippi experience to life with fan-favorite songs, engaging moments and plenty of opportunities for families to have fun together. So grab your orange Blippi glasses and get ready to move, play, explore and BE LIKE BLIPPI!
Doors at 5:00 PM | Show at 6:00 PM
Gary Owen: No Hard Feelings Tour
One of comedy’s most recognizable personalities is coming to Hattiesburg!
Gary Owen brings his signature unfiltered comedy, fearless storytelling and sharp observational humor to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Saturday, February 20, 2027, at 6:30 p.m.
With more than two decades in comedy, Owen has built a reputation for saying what everyone is thinking — and turning everyday life, family, relationships and his own experiences into hilarious stories.
You’ve seen him in films including Think Like a Man, Ride Along, Little Man, Daddy Day Care and Meet the Blacks, as well as on television in The Gary Owen Show and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. His stand-up specials include Black Famous, Urban Legend and Broken Family.
Now, see Gary Owen LIVE in the intimate and historic setting of downtown Hattiesburg’s Saenger Theater.
Doors at 5:30 PM | Show at 6:30 PM
Dr. Seuss's The Cat in the Hat - Live on Stage!
Dr. Seuss’s beloved THE CAT IN THE HAT is coming LIVE to the stage at the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Monday, February 22, 2027! OH, THE FUN YOU’RE GOING TO HAVE!
Get ready for an energetic, hilarious, and imaginative stage adventure based on the classic Dr. Seuss book! Join the Cat, Thing One, Thing Two and the outspoken Fish as they turn an ordinary rainy day into an unforgettable adventure. Laughs. Surprises. Imagination. A little delightful disorder!
Bring the whole family and get ready to have fun with The Cat in the Hat!
Doors at 5:00 PM | Show at 6:00 PM
Henry Cho: It's What I Do
Get ready for a night of clean Southern comedy when Grand Ole Opry member Henry Cho brings his all-new It’s What I Do Tour to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Saturday, February 27, 2027!
With more than 40 years of comedy, Henry Cho brings his signature storytelling and observational humor to the stage with never-before-seen material about family, parenting, marriage, church life, cultural mix-ups and all the everyday moments we can relate to.
Henry Cho is a nationally recognized comedian, actor, radio personality, and Grand Ole Opry member whose clean, versatile comedy has made him a favorite with audiences across the country. In 2023, Cho was inducted as the 229th member of the Grand Ole Opry, becoming the first comedian to receive the prestigious honor since 1973. His unique blend of observational humor, Southern storytelling, and clean comedy has allowed him to perform for a remarkably diverse range of audiences.
Doors at 7:00 PM | Show at 8:00 PM
World Ballet Company: The Sleeping Beauty
An Ultimate Fairy Tale for the whole family!
Experience the enchanting world of The Sleeping Beauty in a breathtaking new production from World Ballet Company.
This magical performance features forty professional dancers, over 150 radiant costumes, stunning hand-crafted sets and multimedia effects.
Follow Princess Aurora from her joyful christening to the wicked fairy Carabosse's powerful curse, the kingdom's enchanted hundred-year sleep, and the magical kiss that awakens the sleeping beauty. From the iconic Rose Adagio to the grand wedding celebration, every moment is filled with beauty and wonder.
Share an unforgettable evening where fairy tales come to life, love conquers darkness, and happily ever after awaits.
Duration: 2 hours (including 20-minute intermission)
Audience: 2+
WBC Website: https://worldballetcompany.com/hattiesburg3
World Ballet Company - Ballet Everywhere, Ballet For All.
*About the Company: Based in Los Angeles, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company presents the most beloved and iconic ballets of our time in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries.
To date, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities, reaching an audience of more than 600,000 fans.
Make it a group experience! Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more: worldballetcompany.com/group-tickets.
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
Marcus D. Wiley
Get ready for an evening of laughter, storytelling and inspiration! Comedian and entertainer Marcus D. Wiley is bringing his one-of-a-kind comedy to the Historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Saturday, April 10, 2027!
With his viral comedy special Marriage Is Major Surgery racking up more than 5.5 million views and his latest special, Rehab, Marcus knows how to deliver the laughs while leaving audiences with a message.
As Marcus says, "Laughter is good, but the Message is better!"
Doors at 6:00 PM | Show at 7:00 PM
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