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Ryman Auditorium
116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States
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Di
Review №1

One of the best experiences Ive had on my trip so far. The eleven minute video was phenomenal and learning about the history of this place made me appreciate it more. Would love to visit Nashville again.

Ra
Review №2

Very awesome place to visit and learn all about the history of The Ryman Auditorium. We took the tour and even got to see the backstage dressing rooms that the celebrities use. It is a self guided tour so you can go as slow or fast as you like. We enjoyed getting to look at all the memorabilia & they even give you a free photo standing on the stage. Something very nice to see when you visit Nashville.

Sh
Review №3

Like a fine wine, the Ryman just gets better with age. This was my fourth visit in the last 15 years. Each time I have taken the tour and have been lucky to see three different shows there as well - Trisha Yearwood, Alison Krause and Vince Gill. Tomorrow night Ill be seeing Clint Black and his wife.As for the self guided tour, I highly recommend it. Youll learn so much about the history of this iconic Nashville venue. Included in the tour is a new short film which is really cool and dynamic, and you also get a free souvenir photo standing on the historic stage. So awesome!Depending on your interest level, youll want to plan on at least an hour to see and experience everything.All pandemic protocols in place.A special shout out to the people that work here. Nashville nice all the way. From the guy in the ticket booth to the guides and gift shop employee, everyone was so kind, friendly and helpful.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, MUST SEE stop on your Nashville trip. Thanks Ryman!

Ni
Review №4

My mom and I came to the Ryman on Oct. 27, 2020. We came to visit Nashville from Chicago. I had to visit the Ryman Auditorium because its such a historic place. Ive seen the Ryman in movies and Ive watched the Johnny Cash show which was aired inside the Ryman. I never thought Id actually see it in person. The Ryman is the Mother Church of Country Music. Inside is designed like a church which I found out once I got there it actually used to be a church. You can smell the history in the building. I saw a film about the Ryman and how it came to be which was interesting. There are exhibits of clothing of some of the performers on display which is interesting. Its a huge building and its very well kept. The tour was very nice and worth the money. My mom and I took a picture inside on stage inside which was a unexpected surprise. The staff there were friendly and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend anyone who loves country music or if you just like to visit historic places to visit the Ryman Auditorium. Great place to visit

La
Review №5

Definitely need to take the behind stage tour! Alot of history and nicely laid out to give you an understanding of its roots and history...need to see film first to understand better! Nice addition is the free picture you get on stage with admission. A must see!

Br
Review №6

We did the Halloween tour, interesting stories nothing scary . We had a great tour.

Pa
Review №7

Enjoyed the video at the beginning. Pics turned out great. Nice people!

Le
Review №8

Loved being in the theater, it was a majestic feeling thinking about all the stars that had played there, like Elvis, Johnny Cash...... Etc. The history was very interesting.

Ri
Review №9

Extremely informative and the introductory movie is 3D (no need for glasses. I was unaware of the Rymans place in positive race relations over the years.

Ri
Review №10

Visited in September. Excellent tour. You actually get to go in the dressing rooms. History of the original Grand Ole Opry is a must see while in Nashville. Also get a free complimentary picture of yourself on the stage of the Mother Church of country music.

Ro
Review №11

Last September, we were treated to a fantastic show at the venerable Ryman Auditorium hosted by Larry Gatlin. It was broadcasted live to 38 countries. Unbelievable talent. Not sure if they teach history any more in the schools. The younger generations believe history started around 1980. But this is where modern American music has its roots almost 125 years ago at the Grand Ole Opry. Nearby is probably the 2 most famous saloons in Nashville of Tootsies and Legends... side by side. Willie Nelson said its 17 steps to Tootsies from the Rymann Auditorium and 34 steps back! Where the drinking went on. Booyah!

An
Review №12

My husband and I had the pleasure of seeing Tash Sultana play at the Ryman. It was my first show at this venue and I will definitely be coming here again for many more shows. The old wood gives the sound a beautiful tone....when it comes time to ask the performers for an encore, those benches make great boom makers as well....Gives off an incredible energy!! Just about every seat sold is a good seat! Of course, front and center on the floor and front row on the balcony would be the best seats in the house, but its a pretty small venue so like I said ALL seats are good seats (especially when the lights go out moving closer to get a better view is VERY easy as the seats are wooden benches and not those automatic folding seats you would find elsewhere such as a stadium concert)..

Re
Review №13

This is an amazing experience!! I highly recommend coming. Its only $25 for a little tour. There are some fun surprises that you wont expect to see as well.

Ca
Review №14

Great place to learn some history about the Ryman. I never realized the building started as a church - or that it was used for more than the Grand Ole Opry. Lots of other acts (music, spoken word, arts & politicians) have played there too!

Si
Review №15

If youve come to Nashville and didnt want to go to the Ryman, why did you come to Nashville?! Plainly put, this is the mecca for country music and it should be on everyones list to visit.Although we visited during the summer of 2020 with COVID 19 floating around, we still had a great time. The history and grandeur of this building can be felt as well as seen. The staff were attentive and were able to answer questions and had plenty of time to talk to us.Exit through the gift shop? Yea, definitely... You will find something that you can take back with you; small guitar pick, t-shirt or a Hatch print reproduction, theres plenty cool stuff to check out!

Ke
Review №16

Loved the film intro to the tour. It definitely brings the Rymans history to life and makes it interesting. The exhibits around the auditorium are great as well. So glad it was preserved! I also really appreciated the video and exhibit on how the auditorium was much more progressive on race issue than venues elsewhere.

Jo
Review №17

Absolutely gorgeous inside. So much history. An honor to step foot in this place. Excellent, helpful staff.

Ni
Review №18

Who doesnt love the Ryman? I mean really. Whats not to like? Okay, other than the seats, whats not to like? Its legendary. Its freaking amazing. Its in downtown Nashville and it still hosts some of the best entertainers in the world today. Even though its older than dirt, its been carefully restored to its former grandeur and now includes a lot of modern conveniences, including well-maintained bathrooms and a gift shop thats way too small for the venue. Drinks are available in the lobby. (If the downstairs bar is packed, try upstairs. The line may be significantly shorter.)Yes, the seats are rock hard, bench style, so you get to know your neighbor. If thats the worst of it, I can deal with that. We say Amy Grant / Vince Gill for their Christmas show and it was spectacular. We were on the ground floor, so we had obstructed-view seats but if you lean a little bit and get to know your neighbor even better, you can see pretty much everything. So, other than the seats, you cant go wrong at the Ryman. Go. Now.

ha
Review №19

Matthew Edward Hall is the hottest guy on Earth and mind blowing. His country roots are evident. Even his words are beyond even Jesus! Gorgeous venue and atmosphere!

Fr
Review №20

As a country music fan, I knew that I would have to see this place when I got into town. So my wife and I took the tour. So much history, not just for country music, but for music in general. That place is steeped in history. If you have a chance you must go.

Tr
Review №21

Its awe inspiring. I can feel the power of the building and the lives it shaped while touring inside

Ja
Review №22

Until you get there, the Ryman Auditorium is just an image in your mind...just a name behind the mystic chords of memories that have continued inspiring your forward movement as long as you can remember. Any American born in the last century has had at least one Country & Western radio station in their Hometown...always on, always available, always comforting in some untold way only Americans, whether from the Hills, the Deep South or the Frontier, really understand. Once you arrive at the Ryman, the epicenter of that unique American sensation, you make a connection you feel like youve waited for all your life.

Ja
Review №23

The auditorium is huge. I havent seen any concerts here, but the place itself is what is most interesting. The best part of the auditorium is the balcony area. Its a historical location, which I believe should remain the way it is. Its a special place, and I cant wait to go see live music here. For now, the guided tour was more than enough to appreciate it.

La
Review №24

Lifetime dream of visiting here. Worth the trip without seeing a concert. Lots of history and legacy in these walls. Bonus points for making the souvenir photo optional, yet part of the tour price!

Ky
Review №25

This is a must see for anyone who loves the history of Nashville and/or anyone who loves country or bluegrass music. What an incredible building and history here. We took a self-guided tour in the afternoon and in the evening, we went to a concert. The experience with both - perfect. I highly recommend this as a place to see!!

Ke
Review №26

Free picture of us on stage. Loved the history. Self guided tour. A must see of the restored Original Grand Ol Opry.

Ma
Review №27

Nice place. Interesting.

Ch
Review №28

The air and physical building let off the energy of 100 plus years of amazing entertainment. You can feel it and experience it with a tour.

Da
Review №29

A lovely old building with a huge amount of character and history. Highly recommend seeing it.

Vi
Review №30

Thats where country music started. The grand daddy. The one and only

ns
Review №31

One of the joys of living in Nashville is getting to go and see concerts and other entertainment at what I like to call my church! If you are traveling through Nashville or planning a trip to Nashville, you should definitely plan your trip around seeing a band you enjoy light up this hallowed venue.Seat wise, you want to either be in front of the balcony overhang on the main floor or in the balcony to get the best viewing and listening experience.If you prefer to have plenty of dancing room, the top right of the balcony, when looking at the stage, is the best to go and freely dance behind all of the other seats, but still a great view and have plenty of room to dance and cut up with your friends from home or just another fan enjoying themselves as well.Be prepared to pay dearly for your adult beverages and please be nice to the kind and generous ushers who are there to make sure you make the best of your experience......

Ma
Review №32

Beautiful historical Nashville landmark. Venue allows for excellent views of performers from many seats. Our favorite is balcony middle, at least 4 rows above edge of balcony, so please dont buy our seats Seating is on wooden pews without cushions. Inflatable cushions are prohibited. (Theres no prohibition against coats. A fiber filled coat folds into a nice cushion.)If you have difficulty with stairs, there are seats at the top of the balcony. Excellent provision for those in wheelchairs or assisted-walking devices.Venue staff are very helpful, so feel free to ask them your questions.Security screening is conducted BEFORE entering the venue. ABSOLUTELY NO POCKET KNIVES of any size. The staff prohibited a Victorinox Swiss Army Classic knife which has a tiny 32x6mm (1.25x0.25inch) blade, so leave ALL blades in your vehicle.

Ra
Review №33

You can see it all here music of all genres, stand-up, lectures, and more. It is an amazing intimate place of great history. The acoustics are legendary, nothing sounds like the Ryman. Of course if you have the opportunity to see it take a tour, and even better see a performance there. If you can catch the Grand Ole Opry there you’ll treasure the experience. This place is a national treasure, it truly is.

Re
Review №34

Great show and the auditorium has amazing acoustics. The artifacts around the edge of the interior are really cool and theres a timeline of the locations history and previous performances on the right side of the building off the main auditorium.The pew seating is uncomfortable to sit in for extended periods of time, but its cool to experience that part of history.I also wish the gift shop sold prints from previous shows instead of just the tabernacle choir/auditorium itself.

Ka
Review №35

Love visiting this place. What history there was there to see and learn about. The film they show at the begining of the tour was fantastic

Tr
Review №36

The Ryman Auditorium was a historical masterpiece! I love historical and music related entertainment sources and sites and this one was a hit! Even my daughter who isn’t a fan of history or music enjoyed touring around the two-story building. The Ryman exhibits a few pieces of the original building and tidbits of history on different artists who had performed, as well as the story of restoration after auditorium had closed. A must see for music and history lovers.

Bi
Review №37

This place is magical - go inside and feel it. Ive seen John Fogerty, Neil Young, Robert Plant and Ringo Starr there.

Jo
Review №38

Went to see Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn, Iron and Wine, and Calexico. It was a great show and the auditorium has great acoustics. The beer is a bit pricey, but all venues charge too much for drinks. All in all, it was a great experience.

St
Review №39

Had a wonderful evening at this legendary venue. Josh Gates was fantastic to see in person. The staff at the Ryman was wonderful. Lines and crowds were managed well, security was efficient and friendly, ushers were lovely. Couldnt ask for more.

Da
Review №40

Great great place...if you love music you need to visit

Ki
Review №41

Its the Ryman..not much more to say!! THE Mother Church of Country Music! Attended a Grand Ole Opry performance, which was amazing. Also took the guided tour. As soon as I stepped into the auditorium, I felt like I was walking amongst the ghosts of Country Music greats...a surreal feeling. A must see!

Ke
Review №42

So fun to see Bret Young live ! They were so concerned for our safety. Thank you for an awesome tome

Cr
Review №43

The Ryman is a MUST for any country music lover, but its also fascinating to hear all the history of other acts that came before the Opry made it their first home. You can learn all about the history (I especially found its Civil Rights history fascinating) and record a track! We enjoyed taking a picture as well on its famous stage. It was a part of my moms growing up years, so she was quite emotional and its filled with warmth. Plan to spend at least 2 hours here for the full absorption.

My
Review №44

A beautiful place to go. They tell the history is such a beautiful way. So lovely.

Pa
Review №45

The birthplace of country music. The Original home of the Grand Ole OpryWhat else do you need to know? Imagine the ghosts on that stage. Oh yeah, saw the Wood Brothers here. Phenomenal. But thats another story.

Cr
Review №46

Such an excellent venue!! Saw Shinedown there on 5/14/19 and was my favorite so far (and had seen them 4 times previously). Not like the big arenas, but a much more up-close and personal setting. Hope to see many more shows there.

De
Review №47

The Ryman is beautiful!! From the stained-glass windows to the history on the walls, you could spend hours here just taking in the history and beauty. We saw an a capella group and the sound was amazing! The staff helps you find your seat in the antique church pews. Hint: bring a soft cushion to sit on if benches are uncomfortable for you. Don’t pass this up when you are in Nashville!

Dw
Review №48

Love the Ryman! Such great history! Self guided tour admission includes a photo on stage!

Ke
Review №49

Loved it!! Brought back so many memories of listening to the Grand Ole Opry with my Pap

Am
Review №50

Historic venue in downtown Nashville that offers a good variety of performances. We went to see the Fisk Jubilee singers and India Arie while in town for a few days and both were excellent. We bought less expensive seats in the balcony area which was fine for viewing and acoustics; the only downside was the seating is basically church pews with not enough space if there are above average sized people in your row (I think there are 6/bench), which means you might need to be comfortable with rubbing thighs with a stranger, and everyone has to move out of the pew into the aisle to let people in and out.

Jo
Review №51

It doesnt look like much from the outside of the building, but the rich interior tells its history and special place with music, especially in the Nashville area. The Ryman was a must see for me on this trip from hearing numerous live recording over the years by various music artists. The historical architecture is also worth noting.

dy
Review №52

You can feel the past the moment you step into the building! From the floor to the ceiling its frozen in time. If you think about who has walked on the floor... all the great Singers! Enjoy your self and the environment, We Did!!

An
Review №53

Great Acoustics I don’t think there was a bad seat in the house! Band played to everyone and all the staff were friendly, helpful, and treated people well

Ch
Review №54

I am not a huge country music fan but this place was still an amazing venue. Definitely worth it to go see a place where such a vast musical history has taken place.

Co
Review №55

The very best. A got to see!

Kr
Review №56

The history and beauty of the venue may be unmatched, but the unscrupulous tactics of management leave much to be desired. They refuse to open refund windows for shows...LIED TOME about it being too late for me to get a refund (only found out the truth because Ticketmaster ratted them out). Then they reach out (after I posted a negative review on Facebook) to admit they lied, they were wrong and were working with the promoter to refund my money. That was August 5, 2020. It’s now October 16, 2020 and I’ve sent MULTIPLE follow up emails that have been ignored. I’ve commented on posts on the Facebook page...those have been ignored. I will never go to another concert here again. I just want my money back....that’s all I’ve asked for. But I guess all the ryman wants to do is lie, cheat a steal from concert goers.

Pi
Review №57

We went to the 9:30 Saturday show. We parked in the parking garage on 4th, just a short walk, plenty of spaces. We got there at 9, the lines were long, but moved steadily. Be sure to dress warmly, we waited outside for about 30 minutes. Dont take your pocket knife, it wont make it through security. If you cant sit long on hard seats, take a cushion. The show is wonderful, very entertaining. We had a wonderful time! Definitely recommend it!

La
Review №58

So much history. The video you get to watch before the tour is really neat

Am
Review №59

Gah. Gorgeous venue. Wonderful old wooden pew style seats. The acoustics are fantastic. Ive been here 3 times and its always been so memorable. You can just feel the legends around you.

Je
Review №60

I understand why this is such an acclaimed spot for live music. Besides the history (which alone is cool), every seat in the house is a good seat. All seating are church pews and the entire venue is pretty small. The acoustics are great and the music really does sound amazing no matter where you are listening. The balcony is great to see a band and even if youre in the back you are still close enough to really see the action.

Ma
Review №61

Awesome place - little less clinical/corporate than the Opry but plenty of history to go around.

To
Review №62

Great experience! So much more personal than a typical concert. A must visit for country music fans!

Ra
Review №63

Great experience only reason for 4 stars is you cant go in the dressing rooms anymore

Wi
Review №64

I have seen shows ranging from Paul Simon to Opeth at the Ryman. The old place does not disappoint! Truly an amazing place to see a show!

Na
Review №65

I went to see Loverboy at this location and it was very beautiful inside. The only downfall would be that pillars can get in your view of whoever is on stage when you sit on the ground floor. Also, the vendors there do only take cash.

V
Review №66

So much history at the Ryman. Great energy there. This is a must do tour when you come to Nashville. The acoustics is awesome. Great sound in this auditorium. See a show, do a tour. The stained glass was beautiful, but not originally from the late 1800s, beginning 1900s.

Mi
Review №67

Had a great show with Carol Burnett. Valet parking was excellent and the security staff was efficient and polite. Such a great venue with significance in music history. Right in the thick of the bustling Nashville downtown scene as well.

Do
Review №68

This was worth the time. Nostalgic fans must go for the history and feel of what this theater stood for.

To
Review №69

I did the tour and really enjoyed it. We were able to see several dressing rooms and the story behind their names. We were allowed to walk across the stage as well. At the end of the tour had our picture taken on the stage with a WSM sponsored microphone and guitar prop. Outstanding venue for concerts.

Da
Review №70

If you are visiting Nashville, taking a tour is a must. My recommendation is take the back stage tour. Totally worth it. Tour guides are informative and friendly. All staff are willing to chat and share their stories about The Ryman. We just said Hi to Keith and it turned into a half hour conversation! Great stories. If you are talking the back stage tour, try and do it on a non event day. You get to walk over the stage and see much more. Awesome. One of the highlights of our trip! So much history

Ro
Review №71

FIRST TIME TO TENNESSEE LOVED THE RYMAN. A LOT OF HISTORY THERE. SO PROUD OF THE ARTIST THAT CAME TOGETHER AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER.

Na
Review №72

Love the story and history behind the Ryman!

Review №73

Back and side of auditorium original, front is now enclosed entrance. Gift shop has good variety of items. Auditorium movie is interesting. The inside is well preserved. Back stage tours Available, extra cost.

Je
Review №74

It was like being at church, the place is so amazing. Its got a long history in the town and it was just a wonderful place to visit. Took the self guided tour and it starts of with a history lesson on how the Ryman came to be. Great show and then you get to walk around and look at all the displays and all the great pictures through the time. Coming back with the wife to actually watch the Grand ol Opry here at the Church of Country Music!

Mi
Review №75

Wonderful history. Very informative.

pr
Review №76

Loved this! We had so much fun.

La
Review №77

Awesome space. Went for Amazon event. Love the museum displays. Great sound and you can see everything even in the back row. Parking not bad but get there early.

Me
Review №78

Loved being in this historic place. The entertainment was wonderful with great variety. A perfect evening.

Ke
Review №79

A wonderful experience! We have visited the new Opry house but this was our first visit to the Ryman. Took the tour, everyone we encountered was so nice and helpful. Music was awesome, loved the history. And loaded up in the gift shop!

Da
Review №80

Nice little self guided tour with alot of historical music cases.

Ma
Review №81

So much history! Definitely a must see for music fans!

Re
Review №82

This is a must. And the people that work there are amazing and knowledgeable

Ka
Review №83

It was amazing to visit the Ryman after growing up watching the Grand Ole Opry!

Je
Review №84

If you love live music, you have to see a band here. Sound quality is close to perfect. Some seats have a pole in front of you. But that ends up being a non issue since you will probably be standing up anyways. Staff is courteous and helpful. Look for a band you like or even marginally like and see them here. You wont be disappointed.

Hu
Review №85

This tour is a must do to fully understand Nashville’s history as a music mecca. It is choc full of historical information and artifacts, and really gives you a feel for how it all came to be. The building although very old still speaks of the many that has graced its stage. Take the time to take this tour. You won’t regret it!

Re
Review №86

A must see place if you are in Nashville and you love music. You don’t need to be a country music fan. We are not. This is where bluegrass style of music was born, in 1940s. Take the tour. It’s well done. It starts with a movie that tells a story of the building in a fun and engaging way. Struck up a conversation with staff members. They are very knowledgeable. Then you enter the actual auditorium. It serves as a music venue, so there might be preparations on a stage for a show. That was the case when we toured. There are other videos and cases with exhibits, telling well the story of the building, Osprey, how building was almost demolished and how it was returned back to its glory. We would love to return to actually hear a performance there and check out the famous acoustics.

Ri
Review №87

The Rymer is an active entertainment center. The professional photographer for photo on stage was included in the admission . That was an unexpected bonus. Live audience allowed this Friday.

Ch
Review №88

The self-guided tour and movie are great! You can make a recording for $10, take your picture on the stage, read all the history...and then there are the AMAZING CONCERTS! A must see in Nashville!

Ed
Review №89

No matter what genre of music you like they have all played here and to set in the seats and look to the stage is just an ah inspired moment and to be on such hollowed ground is just amazing

Ta
Review №90

We went to see Aaron Lewis, who puts on an a really good show btw. The atmosphere was amazing! All of the staff we came into contact with was friendly and helpful. We only had 2 complaints. One being the rude and inconsiderate people in front of us (we dont hold that against The Ryman!!!) And two being the lack of leg room as we are both about 6 tall. However, the old seats are so rich in heritage, we would hope they would never change them! I just mention the space so that fellow concert goers with long legs are prepared to stand and stretch their legs and back as often as possible! It was a great experience all around!

Fr
Review №91

What a great experience learning about this historic site and the role it played in the music we love!

Me
Review №92

Very interesting. Shows the history very well.

Ta
Review №93

If you love Country Music, don’t pass up the opportunity to visit the Ryman. The history of the building is fascinating. A must see if you are planning a trip to Nashville

Br
Review №94

Simply beautiful!! Awesome history!!

Fr
Review №95

The Ryman! If there is a place in Nashville that needs no description this is it - the legendary performance venues steeped in musical history. Saw Straight No Chaser and it was a great show in a special place!

Al
Review №96

I saw the Beach Boys here and I absolutely loved it! The Acoustics of the auditorium are absolutely beautiful! The sound Echoes around really well, theres not a bad seat in the whole place.

Ri
Review №97

Its a great building......lots of historical memories in this place.

Za
Review №98

Saw Bob Weirs Wolf Bros here and you could feel the history in this place. I felt Jerry Garcias spirit during the Darkstar jam. Ill cherish that memory forever.

Br
Review №99

The Ryman is a special place, full of musical history and good vibes. This place should be on your list of things you must do, and do again. Saw the Wood Brothers on St. Patricks Day, what a great show in a most historic venue.

Mi
Review №100

We took a tour there and the video history was one of the best I have seen. We also saw the Amy Grant and Vince Gill Christmas concert which was amazing in this very intimate venue. The seats are wooden hard church seats, but how close all the seats are to the performers make up for it. I highly recommend that concert as well.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States
  • Site:https://www.ryman.com/?utm_campaign=ryman&utm_medium=organicsearch&utm_source=googlemybusiness&utm_audience=tofu_googlemybusiness&utm_content=brandstory_google_my_business_website_link
  • Phone:+1 615-889-3060
Categories
  • Concert hall
  • Live music venue
  • Gift shop
  • Museum
  • Performing arts theater
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:9am–2pm
  • Tuesday:9am–3pm
  • Wednesday:9am–2pm
  • Thursday:9am–2pm
  • Friday:9am–2pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:9am–2pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Bar on site:Yes
  • Restaurant:Yes
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