New Sun Studio-inspired play space invites families to make music, spark creativity, and celebrate the power of play
Memphis Botanic Garden is turning up the volume on imaginative play with the grand opening of Fun Studio, the newest interactive play space in My Big Backyard. Families are invited to celebrate during the My Big Backyard Jam Session on Saturday, August 8, from 6 to 8 pm.
Inspired by the legendary Sun Studio, Fun Studio gives children a place to step into the spotlight, experiment with music, and let their creativity shine. The playhouse features child-friendly musical instruments created by Being:Art, the artist duo of Anne Froning and Sean Murphy, whose outdoor musical installations appear in gardens and public spaces across the country. The instruments encourage hands-on exploration, collaboration, and imaginative play.
The evening celebration will feature live performances from the Fun Studio Band, including Graham Winchester, Jeff Hulett, Ben Church, Lori McStay, and Frank McClallen, along with special guest appearances throughout the evening. Families will also enjoy interactive activities, community partners, outdoor games, and food available for purchase.
“Fun Studio is all about giving children the freedom to create, perform, and express themselves through music,” said Natalie Brashear, My Big Backyard Curator at Memphis Botanic Garden. “Whether they’re putting on a concert for their family, experimenting with instruments, or making up songs with new friends, this space encourages imagination, confidence, and joyful play. We can’t wait to welcome families into this exciting new addition to My Big Backyard.”
The design celebrates one of Memphis’ most iconic cultural landmarks while introducing children to the joy of making music through open-ended, hands-on experiences.
“As a 10-year employee of Sun Studio, I couldn’t be more excited about our upcoming performance at Fun Studio!” said Graham Winchester, Local Musician. “We are going to have a blast playing songs that are sure to engage both kids and adults. Plus, we’ve got surprises, from special guests to some on-the-spot music lessons within the performance!”
The My Big Backyard Jam Session serves as the official public opening of Fun Studio and marks another exciting addition to My Big Backyard, Memphis Botanic Garden’s nationally recognized 2.5 acre children’s garden, where nature, creativity, and active play come together to inspire young explorers.
The My Big Backyard Jam Session takes place Saturday, August 8, from 6 to 8 pm. Admission is $15 for Garden members and $20 for non-members. Advance registration is encouraged.
The My Big Backyard Jam Session is sponsored by UBS Financial Services Inc. Fun Studio was made possible through the generous support of The Little Garden Club.
For tickets and more information, visit membg.org.
Media Contacts:
Olivia Wall | Director of Marketing & Communications | 901-636-4120 |
olivia.wall@membg.org
Jeff Hulett | Jeff Hulett PR | 901-859-9430 | jeff@jeffhulettpr.com
About Memphis Botanic Garden
The Memphis Botanic Garden is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to being an exemplary center for horticulture and environmental enrichment. Serving over 40,000 school-aged children annually, and hosting 260,000 visitors each year, Memphis Botanic Garden strives to enhance lives by connecting people with nature, increasing awareness and appreciation of our environment.
###
