John Doyle Joins the Memphis in May International Festival as Vice President of Programming

MEMPHIS, TN, UNITED STATES, October 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Memphis in May International Festival announces the addition of John Doyle as the festival’s Vice President of Programming, beginning October 1, 2026. Doyle was previously the Executive Director of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, where he served for 23 years. As V.P. of Programming, Doyle will coordinate the festival’s marketing as well as helping to plan and coordinate current and future events and programming for the 50-year-old Memphis in May International Festival.

This is Doyle’s second stop at Memphis in May. He previously served as the festival’s Vice President of Programming from 1999-2003 before joining the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul organization as Executive Director.

“Our organization’s Board and Staff are excited to bring John and his talents back to the Memphis in May International Festival,” said Mack Weaver, President & CEO. “He brings unique and impressive skills in marketing, museum exhibits, cultural and special events programming, and fiscal responsibility that can help us continue to grow this festival for our citizens’ benefit for the next 50 years.”

“I’m excited to return to the staff of the Memphis in May International Festival, which I consider to be one of our city’s greatest cultural assets,” said Doyle. “I’m incredibly impressed by the current staff’s dedication and commitment, under the leadership of Mack Weaver, to sustain, grow and further nurture its signature events for our city and its citizens.”

The Memphis in May International Festival is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1977 with a mission to promote and celebrate Memphis culture, foster economic growth, and enhance international awareness through education. The organization fulfills this mission through a year-round celebration featuring educational programs, cultural exchange, and world-class events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (est. 1978) and the Great American River Run (est. 2015). For nearly five decades, Memphis in May has showcased the best of Memphis to the world—and the world to Memphis. Recognized globally for excellence, the festival has earned more than 250 prestigious Pinnacle Awards from the International Festivals and Events Association and was named one of Travel + Leisure’s “Festivals Worth Traveling For.” More information about the 2027 Memphis in May International Festival, including event schedules, tickets, registration, and programming, will be announced in the coming months.

John Doyle
Memphis in May International Festival
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