Acoustic Guitar Virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel Returns to Rio Theatre

The Australian-born musician will bring his energetic and improvisational live show to Santa Cruz on April 23.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:48pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of the intricate wood grain and metal hardware of an acoustic guitar, captured in dramatic high-contrast lighting to create a glitzy, high-fashion aesthetic that conceptually represents the virtuosic artistry of performer Tommy Emmanuel.The vibrant, textured details of an acoustic guitar capture the virtuosic artistry of performer Tommy Emmanuel.Santa Cruz Today

Acclaimed acoustic guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel is set to return to the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz on April 23. Emmanuel, who has been playing guitar since age 4, is known for his energetic and improvisational live performances that draw from a wide range of musical influences. His latest album 'Living in the Light' explores themes of finding joy even in difficult times. Audiences can expect a mix of songs from the new album as well as Emmanuel's extensive back catalog.

Why it matters

Tommy Emmanuel is considered one of the greatest living acoustic guitarists, known for his virtuosic technique and ability to seamlessly blend genres. His return to the Rio Theatre, a venue he has played many times before, is an opportunity for local music fans to experience his dynamic and captivating live show.

The details

Born in New South Wales, Australia, Emmanuel started on electric guitar as a child before transitioning to the acoustic guitar, which he felt was his true calling. He formed a family band with his brother Phil that toured throughout Australia, drawing inspiration from American country music icons like Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard and Buck Owens. Emmanuel's playing was also heavily influenced by the legendary Chet Atkins, who bestowed upon him the prestigious 'Certified Guitar Player' title. Over his solo career, Emmanuel has collaborated with other guitar greats like Eric Clapton, Joe Walsh and Mark Knopfler, and he considers it a highlight to have performed at the closing ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics, which was watched by an estimated 2.4 billion people worldwide.

  • Tommy Emmanuel released his 30th solo studio album 'Living in the Light' in October 2025.
  • The concert at the Rio Theatre is scheduled for April 23, 2026.

The players

Tommy Emmanuel

An Australian-born acoustic guitar virtuoso known for his energetic and improvisational live performances that blend a wide range of musical influences, from country to jazz to rock. He has been playing guitar since the age of 4 and has released 30 solo studio albums.

Chet Atkins

A legendary American guitarist, songwriter, and record producer who was a major influence on Emmanuel's playing style. Atkins bestowed Emmanuel with the 'Certified Guitar Player' title, which is given to musicians who demonstrate mastery on the guitar.

Phil Emmanuel

Tommy Emmanuel's older brother, who was also a successful guitarist and with whom Tommy formed a touring family band in their youth.

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What they’re saying

“His records just sounded so great.”

— Tommy Emmanuel, Musician

“When we walked off the stage into the dressing room, Chet turned to me and said, 'Fooled them again!'”

— Tommy Emmanuel, Musician

“As a player, I've been influenced by everything from jazz to rock and roll to country to pop music. I just like good songs. I like songs that tell a story and take the listener somewhere, and I try to write and play in a way that's self-contained. You don't need anything else, just play it on the guitar.”

— Tommy Emmanuel, Musician

What’s next

Tickets for Tommy Emmanuel's April 23 concert at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The takeaway

Tommy Emmanuel's return to the Rio Theatre is an opportunity for local music fans to experience the virtuosic playing and dynamic showmanship of one of the world's greatest living acoustic guitarists. His ability to blend diverse musical influences and captivate audiences through his improvisational live performances has earned him a loyal following over his decades-long career.