Key Takeaways
- Tulsa, Oklahoma, experienced a significant surge in entertainment and creative industries in 2025, with notable events and productions bringing national attention and economic impact to the city.
- The television series "The Lowdown" was filmed in Tulsa, showcasing local locations and music, and creating jobs for Oklahomans in the film industry.
- Collinsville, Oklahoma, opened the first city-owned film studio in the state, providing a new resource for local filmmakers and future productions.
- The Outsiders musical brought Broadway to Green Country, with a national tour launching in Tulsa and featuring a red-carpet premiere.
- Music legends such as Bono, The Edge, and Paul McCartney visited Tulsa, drawing attention from music fans across the country and contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a hub for creative industries.
Introduction to Tulsa’s Entertainment Scene
Tulsa, Oklahoma, has had a remarkable year in terms of entertainment, with a wide range of movies, television shows, music, and live theater productions bringing national attention and economic impact to the city. The year 2025 marked a significant turning point for Tulsa’s creative industries, with city leaders hailing it as a banner year for entertainment. From Hollywood productions to Broadway tours and legendary musicians, Tulsa has become a hub for creative talent and innovation.
The Lowdown on Tulsa’s Film Industry
One of the biggest entertainment stories of the year was the television series "The Lowdown," created by Oklahoma filmmaker Sterlin Harjo. The production filmed its pilot in Tulsa in 2024 and returned in 2025 to shoot the remainder of its first season. The series features Tulsa locations and locally made music, providing a unique showcase for the city’s hidden gems. The production also created jobs locally, giving Oklahomans the opportunity to work in the film industry, which has traditionally been centered on the coasts. According to Meg Gould, executive director of the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture, "It’s been incredible… You get to see all the gems of Tulsa and little secret gems that are hidden throughout the series, but you also get the gift of the music that is from Tulsa."
Collinsville’s New Film Studio
The growth of film production in the region extended beyond Tulsa, with Collinsville opening the first city-owned film studio in Oklahoma. The studio, called Emerge Studios, is a first-of-its-kind facility that leaders say will be the largest in Oklahoma and the only municipally owned studio in the United States. According to Randy Wayne of Rebellium Films, "Collinsville may not be known to the rest of the country, but it will be pretty quickly." The studio is expected to provide a new resource for local filmmakers and future productions, further cementing the region’s reputation as a hub for creative industries.
The Outsiders Musical Brings Broadway to Green Country
Tulsa was also featured on the national stage with the musical production of "The Outsiders." The touring production launched with opening-night performances in Green Country, complete with a red-carpet premiere attended by cast members and fans. According to John Peterson, who plays "Brill" in the musical, "I’m so thrilled to be able to tell this story to people who care… Who care so much about the story. It feels very special." The production brought the iconic hometown story back to where it began, with cast members visiting the Outsiders House Museum to connect with Tulsa’s history ahead of the show’s premiere.
Music Legends Visit Tulsa
Music was another major driver of Tulsa’s national exposure in 2025, with legendary musicians such as Bono, The Edge, and Paul McCartney visiting the city. Bono and The Edge received a prestigious award at Cain’s Ballroom, drawing attention from music fans across the country. Paul McCartney performed at the BOK Center, taking time to enjoy the views along the Arkansas River and even posting a now-famous social media video during his visit. These visits not only brought attention to the city but also contributed to its growing reputation as a hub for creative industries.
Looking Ahead to 2026
City leaders say the momentum isn’t slowing down, with the 100th anniversary of Route 66 approaching in 2026. The Tulsa Film and Music Office says major events, art installations, and musical celebrations are already being planned. According to Meg Gould, "I think 2026 is going to be pretty impressive." The city is expected to continue its growth as a hub for creative industries, with a focus on providing resources and opportunities for local talent and attracting national attention and investment.
Economic Impact Beyond the Spotlight
The increased attention is about more than just recognition, with officials saying that film crews, touring productions, and visiting artists are bringing real dollars into the local economy. The Tulsa Film and Music Office says that these visitors are spending money at Oklahoma restaurants, shops, and businesses, putting the city on screens and stages nationwide. The economic impact of the entertainment industry is expected to continue to grow, providing a significant boost to the local economy and cementing Tulsa’s reputation as a hub for creative industries.