(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Jim Coley (R-Bartlett) and House members recently honored Memphians Hillsman Lee Wright and Cybill Shepherd for their contributions to the City of Memphis and the Orpheum Theatre with a pair of resolutions.
House Joint Resolution 909, sponsored by Representative Coley, recognizes Wright for his role in saving the historic theatre. Wright spent his entire 43-year career fighting for the protection, preservation, and restoration of theatres across the country — including the Orpheum in his hometown of Memphis. As a volunteer, and also as a board member, patron, donor, service provider, staff member, and activist, he has inspired thousands to support preservation and restoration efforts of these historic buildings. Wright was also instrumental in recruiting Shepherd for its 50th-anniversary fundraising campaign, “Orpheum or Asphalt.” It was one of the most successful arts-related fundraising campaigns in the city’s history.
House Joint Resolution 996, also sponsored by Coley, recognizes Shepherd — a graduate of East High School and a multiple Golden Globe award-winning actress — for her efforts to preserve the Orpheum. Shepherd has also been a strong advocate for her city, helping promote its musical industry by recording her Vanilla album in Memphis. Additionally, she has been a generous supporter of the National Civil Rights Museum and other local organizations supporting human rights and the arts.
Originally built in 1928, the Orpheum was in danger of being redeveloped in the late 1970s. However, the efforts of Shepherd and Wright helped save the now 90-year-old theatre which is seen as a symbol of the city’s rebirth. The 2,308-seat venue is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains a premier venue for theatrical and musical performances throughout the Midsouth region.
“It is a tremendous honor to recognize these impressive individuals for their work protecting a fixture of our proud history — the Orpheum Theatre,” said Representative Coley. “Because of their extraordinary efforts, future generations of our citizens will be able to learn about the significance of this important landmark in our local narrative. I am grateful to both for their efforts and advocacy on behalf of our theatre, and it is an honor for me to thank them with these resolutions.”
For more information about House Joint Resolution 909, click here.
Click here to learn more about House Joint Resolution 996.
Jim Coley serves as a member of the House Finance Ways & Means Committee and Subcommittee. He is also a member of the House Criminal Justice Committee. Coley lives in Bartlett and represents House District 97, which includes part of Shelby County. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-8201.