Missouri Giantess Comes Home: Ella Kate Returns to Memphis in New Musical “Dream Big”

The story of Scotland County’s most famous daughter is coming home.

Ozarks Lyric Opera will bring its new folk musical ”Dream Big: The True Tall Tale” to the Memphis Theatre (106 E. Madison Street) on June 4, 2026 for a special hometown engagement.

Inspired by the life of Ella Kate Ewing— known around the world as the “Missouri Giant”—the musical celebrates a remarkable Missouri story of perseverance, courage, and self-acceptance.

The production is based on the award‑winning children’s book Stand Straight, Ella Kate by Missouri author Kate Klise, with music by Ruell Chappell of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils and arrangements by composer Katie Kring.

Designed as family‑friendly entertainment suitable for audiences of all ages, the Memphis engagement will include a public performance on June 4, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. and two free daytime school performances on June 5, at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for students from Scotland County and surrounding districts.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, productions like Dream Big celebrate the local stories and remarkable individuals who helped shape communities across the nation — including Scotland County’s own Ella Kate Ewing.

The Memphis performances are presented in partnership with Memphis Community Players, Downing House Museum, the Scotland County Historical Society, and Scotland County and surrounding school districts.

“Ella Kate’s story reminds us that our differences can become our greatest strengths,” said Sean Spyres, General Manager of Ozarks Lyric Opera. “We hope families and students will come together to celebrate a remarkable Missouri story right here in the community where it all began.”

Tickets for the folk musical “Dream Big: The True Tall Tale” are $5.00 for general admission for the public performance on June 4, at 7:00 p.m. (There will be no charge for school aged children attending the public performance with paid adult admission.) Theatre Box Office hours will be from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily June 1, 2, 3, and 4. Tickets may be reserved for will call at 660 465- 2277. Reservations are suggested, but tickets will be available at the door.