Francis Marion University Patriots: Fall Concerts, Musicals, and Venue Highlights
As the vibrant hues of fall begin to blanket South Carolina, the Francis Marion University Patriots' home region transforms into a stage for an incredible array of live music, theatrical performances, and cultural experiences. The cooler evenings and crisp mornings bring with them an energy perfect for enjoying everything from electrifying arena concerts to intimate theatre productions. In Florence and the surrounding areas, stages are set for artists spanning genres from country to indie pop, and musicals that transport audiences from Broadway's bright lights to imaginative worlds. This season promises memorable nights filled with the rhythms, harmonies, and stories that make live entertainment an experience like no other.
The Jonas Brothers first captured hearts in the mid-2000s with a blend of pop-rock energy and family-friendly charm, propelled to fame through Disney Channel appearances and chart-topping albums. Hits like "Burnin' Up" and "Sucker" helped define a generation's playlist. After a hiatus that saw each brother explore solo projects, their 2019 reunion with the
Happiness Begins Tour became one of the year's most talked-about comebacks, selling out arenas across the country. Their music blends infectious hooks with tight harmonies, and their tours often feature elaborate staging and fan-favorite deep cuts. They've earned numerous Teen Choice Awards and an American Music Award for Breakthrough Artist.
New Zealand-born singer-songwriter Lorde emerged in 2013 with her breakout hit "Royals," earning two Grammy Awards for her debut album
Pure Heroine. Known for her poetic lyrics and moody electropop sound, she has become a critical darling and global touring force. Her follow-up albums,
Melodrama and
Solar Power, showcased her evolving artistry, each supported by expansive world tours that sold out major venues. Lorde's ability to connect with audiences lies in her storytelling—turning personal introspection into anthems for her generation. She has been nominated for multiple Billboard Music Awards and continues to influence pop music's creative direction.
Bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings has redefined what modern string music can be, blending traditional picking styles with jam band improvisation and rock energy. Bursting onto the scene in the mid-2010s, his albums
Home and
Renewal earned widespread acclaim, with
Home winning a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album. His concerts are celebrated for their extended improvisations and seamless genre-blending, attracting both bluegrass purists and festival crowds. Selling out amphitheaters and headlining major events like MerleFest, Billy Strings continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music while honoring its roots.
Lainey Wilson's rise in country music has been nothing short of remarkable. Her breakout single "Things a Man Oughta Know" topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart and earned her the ACM Award for New Female Artist of the Year. Known for her bell-bottom country style and powerhouse vocals, Wilson has toured with stars like Luke Combs and performed at the Grand Ole Opry. Her latest albums blend traditional country storytelling with modern production, making her a fresh yet authentic voice in the genre. Wilson's live shows are a celebration of Southern charm and heartfelt songwriting.
Transitioning seamlessly from Disney Channel actress to pop powerhouse, Sabrina Carpenter has carved out a space in the music industry with hits like "Nonsense" and "Feather." Her album
emails i can't send received praise for its candid lyricism and catchy hooks, leading to sold-out headlining tours in both North America and Europe. Carpenter's stage presence is confident and charismatic, making her concerts a mix of polished pop and intimate connection with fans. She has performed at major festivals and shared stages with Taylor Swift on
The Eras Tour.
Mumford and Sons emerged from London's folk revival in the late 2000s with their banjo-driven debut
Sigh No More, earning Grammy nominations and global acclaim. Their second album,
Babel, won the Grammy for Album of the Year and solidified their status as arena headliners. Known for their rousing live performances that often end with all members playing together at the front of the stage, they've toured extensively across continents. Their sound blends folk storytelling with rock's energy, and each album showcases their willingness to evolve stylistically.
Since forming in 1976, Foreigner has sold more than 80 million records worldwide, delivering classic rock staples like "I Want to Know What Love Is" and "Cold As Ice." Their arena-filling performances in the '70s and '80s set the standard for rock spectacle, and they remain a popular touring act today. Their Greatest Hits tours continue to draw multi-generational crowds, proving the timelessness of their catalog. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Foreigner's blend of rock hooks and heartfelt ballads remains a fixture in live music.
Discovered on
American Idol, Benson Boone quickly made waves with his emotive pop ballads and heartfelt delivery. His breakout single "Ghost Town" charted internationally, leading to television appearances and headlining shows. Boone's vocal range and authentic stage presence resonate with fans, making him a rising star in the singer-songwriter scene. His tours, often featuring stripped-down acoustic sets, highlight his raw talent and storytelling ability.
Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Lzzy Hale, Halestorm has been a dominant force in hard rock since their debut album in 2009. Known for hits like "I Miss the Misery" and "Love Bites (So Do I)," the latter of which won them a Grammy for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance, the band's live shows are high-energy events filled with fierce guitar riffs and dynamic vocals. They've toured with legends like Alice Cooper and Evanescence, consistently proving their staying power in the rock world.
Formed in 1999, Rascal Flatts became one of country music's most successful acts with chart-topping singles like "Bless the Broken Road" and "Life Is a Highway." Their harmonies and heartfelt ballads earned them multiple CMA and ACM awards, along with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their farewell tour was met with overwhelming demand, proving their enduring popularity after two decades in the spotlight.
Chance the Rapper's independent approach to music distribution changed the industry, with his mixtape
Coloring Book becoming the first streaming-only album to win a Grammy. Known for his fusion of hip-hop, gospel, and jazz, Chance delivers uplifting and energetic performances. His tours, such as
The Big Tour, have filled arenas with vibrant visuals and a celebratory atmosphere. Beyond music, he's a philanthropist dedicated to education and youth programs in Chicago.
NBA YoungBoy has become one of rap's most prolific artists, releasing multiple projects each year that dominate streaming charts. His raw storytelling and emotional delivery resonate with fans, and his music videos frequently rack up millions of views within days. Despite a turbulent personal life, his live performances are packed with energy and a deep connection to his audience.
Since its Broadway debut in 2003,
Wicked has enchanted millions with its reimagined tale of the witches from
The Wizard of Oz. The Stephen Schwartz score includes iconic numbers like "Defying Gravity" and "Popular," and its elaborate sets and costumes have won multiple Tony Awards. Touring productions have brought the magic to cities worldwide, consistently selling out venues.
This stage adaptation of the beloved 1985 film blends nostalgia with spectacular stagecraft. Featuring Alan Silvestri's original score alongside new songs, the musical captures the humor and adventure of Marty McFly's time-traveling escapades. Premiering in the UK before moving to Broadway, it has drawn strong reviews and a loyal fan following.
Lin-Manuel Miranda's
Hamilton revolutionized musical theatre by combining hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes to tell the story of Alexander Hamilton. Winner of 11 Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it has become a global phenomenon. Touring productions bring the historical drama to audiences who might not be able to see it on Broadway.
Venues in the Region
Florence Center – Built in 1993, the Florence Center seats around 10,000 for concerts and hosts a range of events from major touring acts to local community gatherings. It has seen performances from country legends to rock icons, making it a cultural hub for the Pee Dee region.
Colonial Life Arena – Located in Columbia and opened in 2002, this 18,000-seat venue is the largest in South Carolina. It has hosted artists like Elton John and Taylor Swift, along with NCAA basketball games and large-scale productions.
Alabama Theatre – Since opening in 1993 in Myrtle Beach, the Alabama Theatre has become famous for its
One The Show production as well as hosting touring artists. With a seating capacity of 2,000, it offers a more intimate setting for concerts and musicals.
House of Blues Myrtle Beach – Opening its doors in 1997, the House of Blues combines a 2,000-capacity main music hall with a restaurant and bar. It has welcomed artists ranging from blues legends to contemporary rock and pop acts, making it a must-visit venue for music lovers.
Special TicketSmarter Offer for Patriots Fans
This fall, TicketSmarter is proud to offer Francis Marion University Patriots fans an exclusive discount. Use promo code
PATRIOTS5 at checkout to save on your next purchase of concert, theatre, or sports tickets. Whether you're planning a night out in Florence or heading to a show in Myrtle Beach or Columbia, this is your chance to experience live entertainment for less while supporting your team spirit.
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