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Esbenshade Series Welcomes Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters Back to Marietta

Marietta, OH (10/01/2025) — The Esbenshade Series and Marietta College will welcome Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters to the historic Peoples Bank Theatre on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m., bringing their rich harmonies and 1960s rock 'n' roll spirit to the stage.

Formed in 2006, The Boxmasters have created a wide-ranging and eclectic catalogue of music, drawing inspiration from classic rock and Americana influences, including The Beatles, The Byrds, The Allman Brothers, and Kris Kristofferson.

This past July, the band released its vibrant 19th studio album, Pepper Tree Hill, inspired by their personal recording studio, Pepper Tree Hill Studios. Following its release, the band launched a nationwide tour, delivering their signature mix of harmonies and storytelling to audiences across the country.

Known for their sharp songwriting and energetic performances, the band has earned a devoted following across the United States, Canada, Europe, and beyond. Throughout their career, they've opened for iconic acts including ZZ Top, Steve Miller, and George Thorogood.

"Billy Bob Thornton is, to me, a modern-day Renaissance man. His creativity and charisma know no boundaries, and his work-from acclaimed films to original music with The Boxmasters-is always compelling," said Todd Burge, director of the Esbenshade Series.

Audiences can look forward to an unforgettable live performance. The Boxmasters will blend classic rock and a contemporary edge, delivering the energy that has made them a standout on national and international stages. In this intimate setting, the community gets a rare opportunity to see that presence meet the spirit of Marietta.

The event is free and open to the public thanks to the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund. Doors open at 6 p.m., and ticket reservations are now available with a limit of four per person.

Marietta College is committed to continuing its longstanding tradition of bringing world-class artistry to campus and the local community. For additional information about the 2025-26 Esbenshade Series, visit marietta.edu/esbenshade-series.


About Marietta College

Located in Marietta, Ohio, at the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio rivers, Marietta College is a four-year liberal arts college. Chartered in 1835, today Marietta College serves a body of 1,100 full-time graduate and undergraduate students, offering more than 90 majors, minors and concentrations. The College is consistently ranked as one of the top regional comprehensive colleges by U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, Forbes.com, Wall Street Journal/College Pulse and other rankings. marietta.edu/rankings-success


About The Esbenshade Series

These events have been funded by the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund, which provides annual income for the purpose of bringing lectures, performing artists, and programs of a diverse nature to the campus and community at large. The endowed fund was established in 1980 by Harry H Esbenshade Sr., and Harry H. Esbenshade Jr., husband and son, respectively, of the late Mrs. Esbenshade of Uniontown, Pa. All events are free and open to the public.

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