Soul of Motown at Grand Majestic Theater

Our review of the Soul of Motown show at the Grand Majestic Theater aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this popular Pigeon Forge attraction. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Motown’s timeless hits or a curious traveler eager for lively entertainment, this show offers a spirited tribute to some of the greatest voices and grooves of the 1960s and 70s. We’re particularly drawn to the fact that it’s been a top-rated show for over a decade and that tickets are generally available well in advance—roughly 20 days on average—making it a reliable option for planning your trip.

Two aspects stand out for us: the live performances, which many reviews praise as talented and engaging, and the convenience of enjoying food and drinks during the show. The atmosphere sounds vibrant and fun, perfect for a relaxed evening of music and dance. However, a potential consideration is that some guests have found the food offerings to be a bit outdated or not as memorable as the performances. This isn’t unusual for theater concessions, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re expecting a gourmet meal. This experience is especially suitable for music lovers, families, or anyone looking for a lively, affordable night out in Pigeon Forge.

Key Points

• The show has a consistent 4.5-star rating from nearly 500 reviews.
• Ticket prices are around $50, with options to buy directly from the venue for better deals.
• The 1 hour 30-minute performance features high-energy Motown hits with talented singers.
• Concessions and drinks are available for purchase during the show, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
• The theater’s seating is assigned on the day of the show, so plan to arrive a bit early.
• The show has been a favorite in the Smokies for over ten years, maintaining its popularity and quality.

What the Experience Looks Like

The Soul of Motown show takes place at the Grand Majestic Theater, a venue known for hosting lively performances and comedy shows in Pigeon Forge. The theater itself is designed to provide a comfortable viewing experience, with seating assigned at the box office on the day of the show. You’ll want to arrive early to select your preferred seats and get settled. The dress code is casual, so no need to dress up—think vacation casual or nice jeans.

The performance lasts about an hour and a half, and from the moment it begins, you’re transported back to the golden age of Motown. Live performers don stylish costumes and deliver vocals that, based on reviews, range from very good to exceptional. The cast harmonizes perfectly, dances with energy, and covers a broad spectrum of classic hits from artists like The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and others. Expect a upbeat, dance-friendly atmosphere that encourages clapping, singing along, and moving to the beat.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The show kicks off with an energetic opening number that sets the tone for an evening filled with nostalgia and joy. The cast will then take you through a lineup of unforgettable songs, each performed with gusto and professionalism. As you listen, you’ll likely recognize the soulful melodies and tight harmonies that made Motown legendary.

The highlight for many is the feel-good energy, combined with the impressive choreography and vocal talent. Based on reviews, the performers are quite talented, with some guests commenting on the quality of singing and stage presence. One user noted, “The singing and choreography was excellent. A very enjoyable show,” emphasizing how the show really delivers on entertainment value.

During intermission, there’s an opportunity to visit concessions—hot appetizers, small meals, drinks, and snacks are available for purchase. Many visitors enjoy grabbing a quick bite or a drink to enhance their experience. Some reviews mention the food as being okay, with a few noting that it’s not gourmet, but still enjoyable as part of the night’s entertainment.

Food, Drink, and Atmosphere

While the ticket price covers only the show, the venue offers a “Dine-In” Café & Bar, where you can order appetizers, snacks, and beverages during the performance. Guests have praised the quick and friendly service, and many find the food reasonably priced and tasty enough to accompany the lively atmosphere. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so plan for additional expenses if you want to indulge.

The theater environment is friendly and casual, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. The atmosphere is lively but not overly touristy. You’ll be surrounded by fellow music enthusiasts and visitors eager to celebrate Motown’s greatest hits.

Ticketing and Cost-Effectiveness

With tickets averaging about $50.45, this experience offers good value—especially considering the high-energy performances and the fact that it’s been a top-rated show for over ten years. Many guests have noted that buying directly from the venue is cheaper than third-party sites like Viator, and often you can get the show plus a meal bundled together when booking directly.

The convenience of having your tickets held at the box office for pick-up on the day of the show simplifies planning. Remember, seats are assigned on arrival, so arriving early is advisable to secure the best spots.

Authenticity and Audience Feedback

The show has maintained a strong reputation among visitors. Many reviews applaud the talented cast, with comments such as “The performers were great and kept us engaged,” and “The singing and choreography was excellent.” Guests also appreciate the lively, energetic vibe and the chance to dance along or sing with old favorites.

That said, some reviews point out minor drawbacks. For instance, one reviewer rated it a 3 out of 5, citing outdated food and some cleanliness issues, mentioning “vomit near the entrance”—a rare and unfortunate incident that’s not typical of the overall experience. Another guest felt the show’s quality didn’t match similar productions nearby, citing vocal range issues, but praised the female singer for her performance.

The consensus is that Soul of Motown provides a fun, feel-good show that’s well-suited for those looking for a casual, affordable night of classic hits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This show is ideal for music fans wanting a quick, lively tribute to Motown’s golden era. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups celebrating a special occasion, as the vibe is relaxed and audience-friendly. If you enjoy live music, dancing, and a nostalgic trip through some of the most recognizable soul hits, you’ll likely find this show a worthwhile addition to your Pigeon Forge itinerary.

Those seeking a gourmet dining experience or a highly polished theatrical production might want to explore other options, but for a casual, enjoyable night out with good music and friendly atmosphere, Soul of Motown hits the mark.

The Sum Up

Soul of Motown at the Grand Majestic Theater offers a spirited, affordable look back at one of the most influential music eras. The performances are lively and talented, making it a great choice for those wanting to enjoy classic hits in a relaxed setting. The availability of concessions and drinks adds to the fun, informal vibe, and the overall value for the ticket price is solid.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate live music, value a friendly environment, and want an evening filled with sing-alongs and dance. While the food may not be gourmet, the entertainment more than makes up for it, especially if you’re in town for a fun night rather than a fancy dinner show.

If you’re in Pigeon Forge and looking for a lively, nostalgic musical experience that doesn’t break the bank, this show is worth considering. Just arrive early, bring your love for Motown, and get ready to sing along with some of the greatest hits of all time.

FAQ

Is the ticket price all I need to pay?
No, concessions and drinks are sold separately. The ticket covers the show only, but many guests enjoy purchasing snacks or beverages during the performance.

Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes, tickets are held at the theater box office, and it’s recommended to arrive early to choose the best seats. Booking in advance is also a good idea, especially during peak times.

Is there a dinner option included?
Not through this platform. The theater offers a “Dine-In” menu, but dinner packages must be booked directly with the venue.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Are children allowed?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the show suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, as the atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, focusing on lively music and dance.

What about parking?
Free parking is available at the venue, making it convenient for visitors.

Is the show accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed at the theater.

Sources:
Viator – Soul of Motown at Grand Majestic Theater