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Lorrie Morgan, Gem series highlight Crystal Theatre’s 2026 season

The Knockabouts, a Marquette-based trio, returns to Crystal Theatre on Saturday to kick off the Gem of a Season series for 2026. (Courtesy photo)

CRYSTAL FALLS — The Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls has announced its 2026 entertainment lineup, which includes country music icon Lorrie Morgan as its Legend Series headliner.

Morgan, known as “The Duchess of Country Music” and a defining voice of the 1990s country music era, will take stage Friday, July 10.

“We are thrilled the Crystal Theatre will be one of her tour stops,” Managing Director Kristen Underhill said. “There’s a lot of excitement building already.”

Underhill noted that Mark Oliverius of Nashville, who was born and raised in Crystal Falls, is currently on tour with Morgan.

“Garth Brooks has ‘friends in low places’; well, I’ve got friends in high places,” she said. “Mark (Oliverius) reached out and asked if we would be interested — I immediately said, ‘Yes, please.'”

Lorrie Morgan will headline the Crystal Theatre’s Legend Series concert July 10 at the historic theatre in Crystal Falls. (Courtesy photo)

Born Loretta Lynn Morgan to George Morgan, a star of the Grand Ole Opry, she made her Opry debut at age 13 in 1973, marking the beginning of a career that would span more than four decades.

Morgan was inducted as a member of the prestigious group at the early age of 24. This year, she celebrates her 42nd anniversary as an Opry member.

Throughout her career, Morgan has earned multiple CMA, ACM and Grammy nominations, sold millions of records worldwide and garnered widespread acclaim for her powerful voice, emotional depth and commanding stage presence.

Morgan became the first woman in her generation to produce three consecutive platinum albums. Her string of hits include “Five Minutes,” Something in Red” and “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength,” — all remain staples of country radio and live performances today.

Morgan continues to tour extensively across the United States and internationally.

The Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls has announced its 2026 entertainment lineup, that will include country music artist Lorrie Morgan as this year’s Legend performer. The Gem of a Season series begins Saturday. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News)

Underhill encourages patrons to purchase tickets early, as she expects the concert to sell out.

In addition to the Legend show, the Crystal Theatre has slated an eight-event Gem of a Season series for its audience.

The Knockabouts, a Marquette-based trio, returns to kick off the concert series Saturday. They will bring traditional and original Celtic tunes as a prelude to St. Patrick’s Day.

“It’s a wonderful way to welcome spring and open the season,” said Underhill, noting she plans to wear a kilt for the occasion. “It’s going to be so much fun.”

In May, two pianists will present diverse repertoires on the theatre’s grand piano.

Crystal Theatre Managing Director Kristen Underhill unloads sound equipment for the upcoming season. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News)

Phillip Daniel, a talented pianist and composer whose musical scores have been featured in dance programs and numerous films, will perform May 8.

“Then Peter Bergin will perform an American jamboree on May 23, for Memorial Day weekend,” she said.

The Missoula Children’s Theatre comes to town June 8-13. They will offer a free acting workshop for students in first through 12th grade.

This year’s production is “The Frog Prince,” Underhill said. Participants will have four days of rehearsals before presenting two performances on June 12 and June 13.

After the Legend’s concert on July 10, the Gem of the Season continues with Mulebone on July 23.

The lower Michigan duo performs traditional roots and blues music with a new twist and a host of unusual accompaniment.

“They’ve been here before and they had a great reception,” Underhill said.

Taking stage Aug. 1 will be Rosie & the Rivets, one of the most in-demand retro acts in the Chicago area.

This energetic group pays tribute to the early years of rock ‘n’ roll and a retro-cool spin on today’s music.

“They’re gonna be an awesome show — break out your crinolines and bring your rockabilly because Elvis is entering the building again,” Underhill said. “This will also be our concert for Fungus Fest weekend.”

On Aug. 15, Jackie & Gary will celebrate the folk era of the ’60s and ’70s, with “Singing the Good Old Songs Again.”

“They are going to play some classics and original fun songs,” she added.

The concert series will continue into fall with Sixtiesmania returning to the historic theatre with a new show on Sept. 18.

The group is hailed as the most authentic tribute to the sensational sixties, spotlighting music from the Beatles to The Beach Boys.

“They’re back with a whole new set list,” Underhill said. “Get ready for your socks to be knocked off.”

The Crystal Theatre will close out the season on a comedic note Pct/ 2 with Andy Beningo.

Beningo was named among the 40 “up-and-coming” comedians in the country. Des Mulrooney will share the stage to bring in extra laughs.

All performances begin at 7 p.m., unless specified, she said.

Underhill is looking forward to another successful Gem of the Season. “I hope everyone comes out to enjoy some great entertainment,” she added. “We have something for everybody.”

She is already working on the 2027 season, and looks to add some new surprises.

Tickets to the Lorrie Morgan Legend concert require reserved seating.

All tickets to individual shows and the eight-event Gem Season package are now on sale online at thecrystaltheatre.org, by phone at 906-875-3208 or in person from 9 a.m. to noon at Stage Left.

Flex-passes allow patrons to select what concerts to attend. Buyers can purchase either a four- or eight-event Gem Flex-Pass and use it in any combination to attend season events, she said.

Underhill noted they are always looking for volunteers and sponsorship. Anyone interested can call the theatre office and leave a message or email manager@thecrystaltheatre.org.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

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