As the year comes to a close, Tulsa is reflecting on a banner year for entertainment, with movies, television, music and live theater bringing national attention — and economic impact — to Oklahoma.
From Hollywood productions to Broadway tours and legendary musicians, city leaders say 2025 marked a turning point for Tulsa’s creative industries.
“The Lowdown” shines a spotlight on Tulsa
One of the biggest entertainment stories of the year was The Lowdown, a television series created by Oklahoma filmmaker Sterlin Harjo.
After filming the pilot in Tulsa in 2024, the production returned in 2025 to shoot the remainder of its first season. Tulsa locations and locally made music play a prominent role throughout the series.
“It’s been incredible,” said Meg Gould, executive director for the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture. “Not only do you 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.”
The production also created jobs locally, giving Oklahomans a chance to work in an industry that has traditionally been centered on the coasts.
“You get to wake up every day and go to your dream job, and it’s right here in Tulsa,” said Chris Gazaway, a production assistant on The Lowdown.
Collinsville opens city-owned film studio
The growth of film production in the region extended beyond Tulsa this year.
Collinsville opened the first city-owned film studio in Oklahoma, betting big on local filmmakers and future productions.
“Collinsville may not be known to the rest of the country, but it will be pretty quickly,” said Randy Wayne of Rebellium Films.
Collinsville is building Emerge Studios, a first-of-its-kind, city-owned film studio that leaders say will be the largest in Oklahoma and the only municipally owned studio in the U.S.
The Outsiders musical brings Broadway to Green Country
Tulsa was also featured on the national stage with The Outsiders musical.
The touring production launched with opening-night performances in Green Country, complete with a red-carpet premiere attended by cast members and fans.
“I’m so thrilled to be able to tell this story to people who care,” said John Peterson, who plays “Brill” in the musical. “Who care so much about the story. It feels very special.”
The national tour of The Outsiders Musical kicked off at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, bringing the iconic hometown story back to where it began. Cast members visited 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.
Bono and The Edge visited Cain’s Ballroom to receive a prestigious award, drawing attention from music fans across the country. Bono even played a little air guitar and sang for spectators afterward.
U2’s Bono and The Edge accept the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize in Tulsa, honoring their legacy of social activism and musical influence.
The same month, Paul McCartney performed at the BOK Center, even taking time to enjoy views along the Arkansas River.
“Which is a pretty groovy one,” McCartney said in a now-famous social media video during his visit.
Looking ahead to 2026
City leaders say the momentum isn’t slowing down.
With the 100th anniversary of Route 66 approaching in 2026, Tulsa’s Film and Music Office says major events, art installations and musical celebrations are already being planned.
“I think 2026 is going to be pretty impressive,” Gould said.
Economic impact beyond the spotlight
Officials say the increased attention is about more than recognition.
The Tulsa Film and Music Office says film crews, touring productions and visiting artists are bringing real dollars into the local economy, spending money at Oklahoma restaurants, shops and businesses while putting the city on screens and stages nationwide.
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