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Columbia State Announces 2026-27 First Farmers Performance Series Lineup

Issue #806

September 01, 2026

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

☀️ Columbia’s Wednesday Weather - Sunny w/ high of 96, low of 73

🎶 Columbia State Announces 2026-27 First Farmers Performance Series Lineup

📰 16-Year-Old Critically Injured After E-Scooter Crashes in Spring Hill

🗓 List of Upcoming Events - Just Updated!

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

Columbia State Announces 2026-27 First Farmers Performance Series Lineup

Columbia State Community College is pleased to announce the artist roster for the 2026-2027 First Farmers Performance Series season. The 24th season of the Performance Series features an exceptional lineup of artists set to perform in the 500-seat Cherry Theater, celebrating 250 years of America through music on the Columbia Campus.

Across six concerts, the series showcases the sounds that have shaped America’s cultural heartbeat: jazz, soul, country and classic pop.

“As we honor Columbia State's 60th anniversary and America's 250th, this season offers a sampler of the songs, styles and stories,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “From jazz and folk to soul, pop and holiday favorites, this ‘American Playlist’ is a musical journey through the sounds that have moved generations that continue to move us, connect us and inspire us.”

“Every year we are excited by the lineup, and this year may be one of the best yet,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “Live entertainment has such a special feel to it, especially given today's streaming entertainment. Come interact with the artists and be a part of an engaged audience. You will leave feeling good!”

“It’s been such a blessing to get to work with the artists coming to the Cherry Theater stage this season,” said Tammy Rosson, Columbia State director of events and alumni relations. “They’re incredible musicians, but they’re also genuinely wonderful people who are excited to come to Columbia State and share their talents with our community. With tickets at $35, free and convenient parking and a free art exhibition in the Pryor Art Gallery before each concert, audiences can experience this caliber of artistry in an accessible and welcoming setting. We’re excited about this season, and I hope people will join us for each of the six performances!”

The Jazz Legacy Project Presents Ella Fitzgerald: First Lady of Song | Thurs., Oct. 22 @ 7 p.m.

Through vivid imagery, compelling storytelling and timeless music, this dynamic concert honors the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald. Featuring The Jazz Legacy Project’s outstanding ensemble and acclaimed vocalist/actor Maria Howell (“The Color Purple”, “Hidden Figures”), the evening blends history and artistry in a way that feels both classic and fresh. From beloved standards to behind-the-music moments, this tribute celebrates a voice that shaped American music and still resonates today.

How Sweet It Is: Steve Leslie Sings James Taylor| Thurs., Nov. 19 @ 7 p.m.

Grammy Award-winning songwriter and recording artist Steve Leslie brings his full band to this heartfelt salute to James Taylor. With warm vocals, exceptional guitar work and an easy stage presence, Leslie captures the spirit of Taylor’s songwriting while making each song his own. It’s an evening devoted to Taylor’s most beloved songs, delivered with sincerity, masterful musicianship and heartfelt authenticity.

Suzy Bogguss: A Swingin' Little Christmas | Thurs., Dec. 17 @ 7 p.m.

Suzy Bogguss: “Swingin' Little Christmas” is a joyous, festive evening of traditional songs and spontaneity. The musicianship is jaw-dropping, and Suzy's rich, fluid voice takes us through sentimental songs like “I'll Be Home for Christmas” to her own spirited, “Two Step Round the Christmas Tree.” It's a fun-filled night featuring all the Christmas classics, sprinkled with some of Suzy's hits through the years and select songs from her recent releases, “American Folk Songbook” and “Aces Redux.” The whole family will enjoy this “Swingin' Little Christmas” show!

Tap Into Soul with Solomon Jaye | Thurs., March 25 @ 7 p.m.

Singer, songwriter, guitarist and electrifying tap dancer Solomon Jaye leads his full band in a high-energy celebration of soul and pop favorites. From James Brown and Stevie Wonder to contemporary chart-toppers, Jaye blends powerhouse vocals with thrilling footwork for a performance that bridges generations. Rooted in tradition yet unmistakably modern, this show invites audiences to feel the rhythm and join the celebration.

Electric Avenue recreates the bold sound and style of the 1980s with energy and precision. Featuring vintage synthesizers, authentic arrangements and a captivating stage presence, the band revives the era that changed pop culture through the rise of MTV. From new wave to arena anthems, this concert blends nostalgia with fresh excitement, perfect for those who lived it and those discovering the decade’s iconic soundtrack for the first time.

Tickets for each performance are priced at $35 and include all fees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries. Individuals may also call the Performance Series ticket line at 931.540.2879. The physical box office is only open beginning at 6 p.m. on the day of each performance and is not open other days for in-person sales.

On performance nights, the box office opens at 6 p.m. in the Kenneth and Ramona Cherry Theater, located in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows begin at 7 p.m. The Columbia Campus is located at 1665 Hampshire Pike in Columbia. Parking is free.

Prior to performances, guests are encouraged to visit the Pryor Art Gallery, located across from the Cherry Theater in the Hickman Building, to see the latest exhibit.

16-Year-Old Critically Injured After E-Scooter Crashes in Spring Hill

A 16-year-old is in critical condition following an e-scooter crash in Spring Hill that police say involved multiple violations of state and local regulations.

Spring Hill Police responded to the crash and found the teenager unconscious in a driveway. Several friends who had been riding with him had left their motorized devices scattered across a nearby yard.

According to police, the teen had been traveling on the sidewalk when the crash occurred. He did not have a driver's license or registration for the vehicle, which officers determined was a motor scooter based on its 750-watt motor.

Investigators believe speed was also a factor. The posted speed limit in the area was 20 mph, and police believe the group was traveling faster than that when the crash happened.

A vehicle was entering the driveway at the time of the incident, although police did not indicate that the driver was responsible for the crash.

The incident has also highlighted the complicated rules governing electric bikes, electric scooters, motorized bicycles and motor scooters. The classifications are based in part on the type and power of the device, and each category has different requirements for riders.

Police say a motor scooter falls under more stringent requirements and can reach higher speeds than some of the other devices. Riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license and registration.

Spring Hill Police say enforcing these regulations can be challenging because of the differences between vehicle classifications and the various age, licensing and registration requirements.

Officers are urging parents to understand what their children are riding and make sure they are following the applicable laws before allowing them to operate motorized devices on public roads and sidewalks.

Residents have also raised concerns about the way some young riders operate the vehicles, saying they frequently see children traveling at high speeds through neighborhoods and near traffic.

Police say the crash serves as a reminder that parents can play an important role in preventing serious injuries by setting limits on where and how children use these devices.

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Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Wednesday, September 2nd

Thursday, September 3rd

Friday, September 4th

Saturday, September 5th

Sunday, September 6th

👇 Click the Links to Learn About our Local Business Sponsors! 👇

🎵 This Week’s Live Music


Tuesday, September 1
Songwriters Round - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 6-9 PM

Thursday, September 3
Todd Ciprian - Tito's, 6-9 PM
Tommy Wheatley - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30-9 PM

Friday, September 4
TBA - The Spot: Burgers & Beer, 5-8 PM
Sam & Maria - Buck & Board, 6-9 PM
First Fridays with Troy Kemp - Puckett's, 6:30-8 PM
Scott Burt Big Band - Riverwalk Pavilion, 7-8:30 PM
Yonder Grove - Grinder's Switch Winery, 7-9 PM
Pride of the North Bank - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30-9 PM
Live on the Square - Wentzel Brothers Band - Puckett's, 8:30-9:30 PM

Saturday, September 5
The Vineyard Sessions - Natchez Hills Vineyard, 2-5 PM
Sean Carson - Keg Springs Winery, 2-5 PM
Box of Rox - Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, 3-7 PM
Labor Day Barn Bash - The Barn at the Phelps Farm, 5 PM
422 West - Hampshire Hills Distillery, 5-9 PM
Yonder Grove - Twisted Copper, 7-10 PM
Curated Writers Round - The Bourbon Gospel, 7:30 PM
Jake Leg Stompers - Puckett's, 7:30-9 PM

Sunday, September 6
TBA - Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, 1-5 PM
Covered Wagon Band - Fozzy's Bar & Grill, 7 PM

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