The Jackson Symphony
In any community, the arts should be alive, visible, and accessible. It’s a key to keeping residents happy, creative, and inspired. Our city’s cultural landscape is anchored by a thriving symphony that brings world-class music to local stages, alongside a vibrant community of visual artists whose work fills galleries, classrooms, coffee shops, and public spaces. Theatre in Jackson invites participation at every age, from children discovering the magic of the stage for the first time to seasoned performers and patrons who have spent decades supporting local productions. Ballet studios and dance programs across the community open their doors to students of all backgrounds, offering opportunities for discipline, creativity, and self-expression at every stage of life. What makes Jackson’s arts scene especially meaningful is its spirit of accessibility. Through school programs, community partnerships, scholarships, and outreach initiatives, young people throughout our city are given the chance to engage with music, movement, storytelling, and visual art – regardless of income level. Creativity in Jackson is not treated as a luxury, but rather as essential.
Each year, the International Food and Art Festival stands as a joyful celebration of the many cultures that shape our community, bringing together flavors, traditions, performances, and artwork from around the world. Add to this the growing presence of street art, murals, and public installations that transform ordinary spaces into shared canvases, and it becomes clear that Jackson is a city that values expression, celebrates diversity, and believes deeply in the power of the arts to connect us all.
The NED
Officially known as the Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center, “The Ned” serves as Jackson’s premiere auditorium for performing arts. The 420-seat theatre features special lighting, superior sound, and perfect acoustics making the space ideal for a diverse array of stage productions. The Ned’s Cultural Center contains two art galleries that may be used for traveling and local exhibits and overall adds character and culture to Jackson’s downtown.
– Ontoni Reedy
The NED in downtown Jackson is a vital part of the arts and culture in Jackson. Under the leadership of David McCall, the NED has put in the spotlight different cultures, communities, and people giving opportunities to those who may not have typically had them. It’s truly a place that gives people from all over Jackson a safe place to experience, perform, and create art.
Ballet Arts
Established in 1975, Ballet Arts, Inc. is a nonprofit ballet studio dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the Jackson community through outstanding performances and outreach programs. Ballet Arts exists to provide the youth of West Tennessee with an opportunity to develop character, life skills, integrity, and independence through the study and performance of classical ballet. For over 50 years the studio has served as an artistic staple in the community, offering a number of notable performances, including the longest consecutively running Nutcracker production in the state of Tennessee.
Jackson International Food & Art Festival
The Jackson International Food and Art Festival provides a stage for locals to celebrate the rich portfolio of culture and diversity in Jackson. A local favorite since 2013, the event recognizes the expansive network of cultures, beliefs, and stories in West Tennessee. Music performances, live dance ensembles, and food are just a few of the ways that contribute to spreading cultural awareness within the area.
The Carnegie
Through the generous donation of Andrew Carnegie, the Carnegie Center for Arts and History was built to be an inclusive education and artistic hub for Jackson. The Carnegie was originally opened as a reading room in the late 1880s and has since served various purposes. It continues to be a center dedicated to celebrating the arts, currently hosting the Legends of Tennessee Music Museum and a variety of new art and historical exhibitions.
