The University of Southern Mississippi’s University Forum at the Saenger

Historic Saenger Theater to Host The University of Southern Mississippi’s University Forum with Grateful Dead Archivist David Lemieux and Tribute Concert by The Stolen Faces November 17
On Tuesday, November 17^th the Historic Saenger Theater will host The University of Southern Mississippi’s University Forum featuring Grateful Dead archivist, David Lemieux and a tribute concert by The Stolen Faces.  
The evening begins at 5:15 p.m. with a Grateful Dead themed celebration block party where food and beverages will be available for purchase.  
At 6:30 p.m., David Lemieux, the Grateful Dead’s official audiovisual archivist and legacy manager will take the stage for a rare look inside the history, music and extraordinary archive of one of rock music’s most enduring bands.  His work has placed him at the center of preserving and sharing the Dead’s vast recorded history.  He has produced scores of archival releases and was supervising music producer for the Martin Scorsese-produced documentary Long Strange Trip: The Untold Story of the Grateful Dead.  He also hosts Today in Grateful Dead History on SiriusXM’s Grateful Dead Channel.
Following Lemieux’s presentation, at approximately 8:00 p.m. the Saenger shifts fully into concert mode with The Stolen Faces, a Nashville-based band that has spent more than a decade exploring the Grateful Dead catalog.  Rather than simply reproducing recordings, the group approaches the music with improvisation and spontaneity that made the Dead’s live performances legendary.  Their repertoire now reaches deep into hundreds of songs from the band’s history.  
The evening is built around the culture that has always surrounded the Grateful Dead: music, stories, discovery and people coming together.  This event is presented by University Forum in partnership with the City of Hattiesburg, the Historic Saenger Theater and Rock 104, and is FREE to the public.  
Whether you're a lifelong Deadhead, a casual fan of classic rock or simply looking for a fun night out in Downtown Hattiesburg, this celebration promises something for everyone.  "This is exactly the kind of event that makes the Historic Saenger Theater such a special part of our downtown community," said Todd Goode, Saenger Theater Manager. "We love opportunities to bring people together, and this evening combines the excitement of a downtown block party with incredible music and a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of America's most iconic bands. Best of all, it's completely free, and everyone is invited!"
Guests are welcome to enjoy the entire evening or attend only the portions that interest them. Community members may come downtown for the block party, attend Lemieux's presentation and stay for the concert, or arrive later specifically for The Stolen Faces' performance. There is no admission charge for any portion of the evening, and wristbands will be distributed at the theater entrance. Admission is subject to available seating and theater capacity.
By bringing University Forum to the Historic Saenger Theater, the event combines the university's tradition of engaging educational programming with the Saenger's role as a premier destination for live entertainment, music and community gatherings.
The Saenger Theater encourages guests to make an evening of it — come early, enjoy the Grateful Dead-themed block party, purchase food and beverages, connect with friends and experience the magic of live music in one of Mississippi's most beautiful historic theaters.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
WHAT: Grateful Dead-Themed Block Party, David Lemieux Presentation and The Stolen Faces Live Concert
WHEN: Tuesday, November 17, 2026
WHERE: Historic Saenger Theater, 201 Forrest Street, Downtown Hattiesburg
SCHEDULE:
5:15 p.m. – Grateful Dead-Themed Block Party Begins; Theater Doors Open
6:30 p.m. – David Lemieux, Grateful Dead Archivist and Legacy Manager
Approximately 8 p.m. – Live Concert Featuring The Stolen Faces
ADMISSION: FREE and open to the public. Wristbands distributed at the door. Guests may attend the presentation and concert or the concert only, subject to capacity.
FOOD & BEVERAGES: Available for purchase during the block party.
PRESENTED BY: The University of Southern Mississippi's University Forum in partnership with the City of Hattiesburg, Historic Saenger Theater and Rock 104.