The performance, titled Palace 100: The Genius of Ray Charles, features a diverse lineup including country artist Jackson Dean, jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles, and vocalists Patti Austin, Aloe Blacc, and Lisa Fischer. Paul Shaffer, the longtime musical director for David Letterman, will host the event, joined by a production team led by Gregg Field, who previously served as Charles’ drummer. The setlist will feature a special rendition of "America the Beautiful," supported by members of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and The Ohio State University School of Music.
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Palace Theatre Marks Centennial With Exclusive Ray Charles Tribute
The Palace Theatre will commemorate its 100th anniversary by returning the music of Ray Charles to the downtown Columbus stage where the legendary performer once played. On November 14, 2026, an all-star cast will gather for a one-night-only concert, marking a century of the venue’s history with a genre-spanning musical tribute.
This production serves as the centerpiece of the theatre’s centennial celebrations, honoring a space that opened as a vaudeville house in 1926. According to CAPA Vice President Peter Keiser, the event bridges the venue’s storied past with contemporary performers who reflect the range of styles Charles explored during his career. Unlike a touring production, this concert is designed exclusively for the Columbus audience, echoing the history of the theatre as a cultural anchor. Tickets are currently available through the CAPA Ticket Center, with prices starting at $62.50.
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