In this episode of Backstage with Scott Stevens, Scott sits down with Waynette Anderson—owner, president, and the driving force behind Dr Pepper Park at The Bridges—to talk about what promises to be the biggest and most ambitious entertainment season the Roanoke venue has ever produced. Hear the interview below by pressing the play (>) button.

Fresh off the official announcement of the 2026 Concert, Comedy & Festival Season, Waynette shares how Dr Pepper Park is once again raising the bar for live entertainment in Southwest Virginia. With approximately half of the season already unveiled, the lineup is proving to be the most diverse, most energetic, and most tourism‑boosting calendar the venue has ever attempted.

From national touring artists to beloved tribute acts, rising Nashville stars to high‑octane rock legends, and even major comedy names, Dr Pepper Park is poised to deliver a nonstop celebration of live entertainment from early spring through late fall.

2026 Highlights Announced So Far

Listeners will hear Waynette discuss what fans can expect from the first wave of show announcements, including:

Gabby Barrett — April 30
Chase Matthew — May 8
Always Jovi (Bon Jovi Tribute) featuring Steve Brown of Trixter — May 9
Hairball (Arena Rock Meets Las Vegas!) — May 23
Rocky Dale Davis — May 29
Jo Dee Messina — May 30
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram — June 4
Lauren Alaina — June 5
Tom Keifer Band with L.A. Guns — June 19
Hollywood Nights (Bob Seger Tribute) — June 27
POP 2000 Tour with Chris Kirkpatrick, O‑Town, BBMak, Ryan Cabrera & LFO — July 2
The Broken Hearts (Tom Petty Tribute) — July 3
Warrant — July 11
Aaron Lewis & The Stateliners — July 12
Rumours LA (Fleetwood Mac Tribute) — July 18
Yachtley Crew — July 24
Chris Stapleton & Lainey Wilson Tributes — July 25
Firehouse & BulletBoys — August 7
Priscilla Block — September 25
Dr Pepper Day Festival — October 24

And as Waynette hints in the interview, this is only the beginning. More shows, more variety, and more surprises are still to be announced.

More Than a Venue—A Regional Economic Engine

Waynette also speaks candidly about how Dr Pepper Park has evolved into one of the strongest cultural and economic drivers in the region. With a season expected to bring tens of thousands of attendees into Roanoke, the impact reaches far beyond the stage—boosting hotels, restaurants, tourism and local businesses while strengthening Roanoke’s reputation as a live‑entertainment destination.

A Conversation Full of Energy, Vision, and Heart

In true “Backstage” fashion, Scott and Waynette go beyond the lineup to discuss the behind‑the‑scenes passion, planning, and persistence that make each season possible. From the challenges of booking 50+ major events to the emotional payoff of seeing fans connect through music, Waynette offers a compelling look at the mission and momentum behind Dr Pepper Park’s continued success.

Listen now to hear why the 2026 season is already shaping up to be historic—and why Roanoke is ready for its biggest year yet of concerts, comedy, and community.

Murphy, Sam & Jodi