Looking for inspiration this fall? Take a few minutes and choose from dozens of music, ballet, dance, theater, and holiday events from the Nut Cracker to Joan Osborne from Steel Magnolias to the Birmingham Boys Choir and oh so much more
ALABAMA BALLET
alabamaballet.org
Legacy in Motion, Sept. 19-21
A former soloist with the American Ballet Theatre and principal dancer with London City Ballet, Associate Artistic Director Roger VanFleteren has performed works by legendary choreographers. This special performance at Dorothy Jemison Day Theater features a selection of Roger’s favorite pieces, showcasing his remarkable journey.
The Nutcracker, Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 19-23
The Alabama Ballet is one of only eight companies in the world licensed to perform George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. This holiday masterpiece will be presented at the BJCC Concert Hall, where Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies reveal a magical world with mischievous mice, toy soldiers, and an enchanted Land of Sweets. We will be accompanied by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for the first three performances.
ALABAMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
alabamasymphony.org
Autumn Leaves, Sept. 16
Our first Concertmaster & Friends concert of the 2025-26 season, “Autumn Leaves”, will feature a program of jazz classics without the traditional or standard jazz band, but with an unconventional group that will feature the cimbalom! Come enjoy an evening of jazz at Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall.
Maestro’s Ball, Sept. 20
Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at the Maestro’s Ball, our largest fundraising effort of the year. Travel through music to vibrant Budapest at the Alys Stephens Center with a concert played by the orchestra and conducted by Maestro Carlos Izcaray.
Fate & Fury: Beethoven’s Fifth, Sept. 26-27
The orchestra will perform Verdi’s Overture to La forza del destino and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in this coffee concert at the Alys Stephens Center, conducted by Carlos Izcaray.
Symphony in the Gardens, Sept. 28
Join us for the 28th Annual Symphony in the Gardens, one of Birmingham’s favorite community events! Picnic meals are sold to raise funds for the ASO’s community and educational outreach initiatives. Enjoy food, beverages, kids’ activities, and orchestral music at this free concert. Don’t forget to bring your own blankets and chairs!
Treble in the Library, Oct. 1-2 and Oct. 30
The ASO and Maestro Chris Confessore invite your students in grades 3–6 on a whimsical, educational adventure in this interactive concert experience! Celebrate the world premier of Treble in the Library—where Lexi the Librarian and her Junior Librarians explore the power of words and music. Hear it at the Alys Stephens Center and Thompson High School Performing Arts Center.
Symphony Goes Wild, Oct. 5
The Birmingham Zoo and ASO are teaming up to present a one-of-a-kind family event that blends the magic of live symphonic music and the enjoyment of the animal kingdom! This special after-hours experience at the zoo will feature ambassador animals, an instrument petting zoo, animal-inspired music, and more.
Harry Potter and the Order of the PhoenixTM in Concert, Oct. 10 and Oct. 12
Find out just what it is they do in the Department of Mysteries when Harry and his friends flee from school to the Ministry of Magic to save Sirius Black™! CineConcerts presents this magical experience, where Harry Potter™ soars across the big screen in high definition at the BJCC Concert Hall.
Dueling Ninths, Oct. 24-25
The ASO Masterworks Series presents Dueling Ninths, featuring Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9 in E-flat Major and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 “Choral.” The concert will be conducted by Carlos Izcaray at the Alys Stephens Center.
Seeking & Soaring, Nov. 7-8
The ASO Masterworks Series presents Seeking and Soaring, featuring violinist Nathan Meltzer. The program will include Reinkemeyer’s Water Sings Fire, Brahm’s Violin Concerto in D Major, and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 in D Major. Hear it conducted by Daniel Cho at the Alys Stephens Center.
A World Premier Inspired by Bach, Nov. 13
Our first 2025/2026 concert at the Carver Theatre will continue the Orchestra’s multi-year exploration of J. S. Bach’s Brandenburg concerti. ASO will also continue our Mr. and Mrs. William J. Rushton, IV Sound Investment Series at this concert as we offer a world première written especially to complement the other pieces on the program.
A Touch of Mozart, A Dash of Tchaikovsky, Nov. 21
The orchestra will perform Mozart’s Overture to Le nozze di Figaro and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1 “Winter Daydreams” in this coffee concert at the Alys Stephens Center.
A Night of Winter Dreaming, Nov. 21-22
The ASO Masterworks Series presents A Night of Winter Dreaming, featuring pianist Einav Yarden at the Alys Stephens Center. The program will include Mozart’s Overture to Le nozze di Figaro and Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, as well as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1 “Winter Daydreams.”
The Muppets Christmas Carol in Concert, Dec. 7
The ASO presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert featuring the complete film, with the orchestra score performed live to picture at the BJCC Concert Hall.
Handel’s Messiah, Dec. 19-20
The ASO presents its beloved holiday performance of Handel’s Messiah at the Alys Stephens Center. This renowned choral work will be conducted by Daniel Cho and feature vocalists Helen Huang, Alissa Anderson, David Tayloe, and Hadleigh Adams.
New Year’s Eve: A Viennese Celebration, Dec. 31
Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for A Viennese Celebration at the Alys Stephens Center! This New Year’s Eve concert brings the spirit of Vienna to Birmingham with lively waltzes, operatic highlights, and festive marches. Guest soloist Laura Corina Sanders will also perform, bringing her unique flair to this elegant program.
ALYS STEPHENS CENTER
alysstephens.org
A Night of the Arts, Sept. 5
The 2025 Viva Health Gala presents A Night of the Arts, an immersive celebration of the arts that raises vital funds for arts organizations. This all-inclusive evening features an AEIVA gallery experience, live performances, and a private concert by pop vocal group Wilson Phillips.
Drake White, Sept. 11
Experience the electrifying energy of country-soul artist Drake White as he brings his acclaimed sound to the Alys Stephens Center. Known for his passionate performances and uplifting songwriting, White’s music blends country roots with soulful rhythms, creating an unforgettable live experience.
Kevin Spencer, Sensory-Inclusive Magic Show, Sept. 14
The Magic of Kevin Spencer is a fun-filled show that combines storytelling, stage magic, and audience participation. Kevin Spencer, Ph.D., is an artist who believes in creating inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one – for any reason – is relegated to the margins. He is considered to be the leading authority on the educational and therapeutic benefits of magic tricks.
An Evening With Sutton Foster, Sept. 28
Sutton Foster is a two-time Tony Award-winning and seven-time Tony-nominated Broadway powerhouse whose dazzling talent, magnetic stage presence, and infectious energy have captivated audiences for over two decades. Don’t miss this unforgettable performance.
Arts Block Party, Oct. 3
Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, community, and celebration as Endea Owens and The Cookout take the stage as part of UAB Center for the Arts’ Arts Block Party! Owens brings her high-energy band to Birmingham for a soulful and uplifting concert. Enjoy activity tables, artist lectures, food trucks, and more at our biggest community event of the season!
Sugar Skull! Oct. 5
Sugar Skull! is a bilingual/bicultural musical production designed for young audiences and families. It uses traditional Mexican music and dance to tell the story of Vita Flores’s magical journey to understand the meaning of Día de Muertos, guided by a charismatic skeleton named Sugar Skull. Fun for the whole family!
Arrives From Sweden: The Music of ABBA, Oct. 9
ARRIVAL From Sweden THE MUSIC OF ABBA quickly became one of the world’s most popular and best-selling ABBA show bands since its start in 1995. Don’t miss your chance to experience the ultimate ABBA celebration – right here at the Alys Stephens Center!
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church 120th Anniversary Talent Explosion, Oct. 11
Come celebrate a milestone with Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church as we mark 120 years of faith, community, and service. Our talent show promises an evening of singing, dancing, history, and family fun, as presented by an amazingly talented cast of all ages hosted by Comedian Rickey Smiley.
Halloween Bash, Oct. 25
Boo! It’s time for a Halloween Bash at the ArtPlay House! Grab your costume and get ready for a not-so-spooky good time filled with music, dancing, sweet treats, and hands-on art activities perfect for little monsters of all ages. This free family-friendly party is the place to be for Halloween fun!
Opera Birmingham’s The Three Little Pigs! Nov. 2
Bring the whole family for a fun-filled musical adventure as Opera Birmingham presents The Three Little Pigs! Perfect for kids and adults alike, this delightful adaptation of the classic fairy tale combines laughter, learning, and lively music.
Joan Osborne and Lisa Loeb, Nov. 13
Join us for an unforgettable evening with two iconic voices in American music—Lisa Loeb and Joan Osborne. GRAMMY™ Award-winner Lisa Loeb presents her signature blend of introspective songwriting and 1990s nostalgia, and eight-time GRAMMY nominee Joan Osborne brings her soulful vocals and powerful songwriting.
Erin Wagner, Nov. 20
Don’t miss the extraordinary Erin Wagner, award-winning American mezzo-soprano and rising star of the classical vocal world, in an inspiring performance presented by Young Concert Artists. Wagner has graced the stages of Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Kaufman Center.
Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas Featuring Maggie O’Connor, Nov. 30
Mark O’Connor, who has won three Grammys, melds the influences of fiddling legends and jazz violinists into a new American classical music. American violinist/fiddler and vocalist Maggie O’Connor performs a variety of musical styles throughout the U.S. and beyond.
A Very Electric Christmas, Dec. 7
Lightwire Theater has enthralled audiences worldwide with their unique combinations of skill and grace as told through the technological innovations of moving light characters. The theater burst to national acclaim after appearing as semi-finalists on ‘America’s Got Talent’ and winning the top honors on TRU TV’s ‘Fake Off.’
ArtPlay’s Holiday Open House! Dec. 13
Get ready to jingle all the way to ArtPlay’s Holiday Open House! Come celebrate the season with festive music, bright lights, art activities, and a special visit from Santa himself. This free daytime event is full of holiday cheer and creative fun for the whole family. Registration is required, so be sure to save your spot!
BIRMINGHAM ARTWALK
birminghamartwalk.org
Birmingham Artwalk, Sept. 5-6
Artwalk is a free, two-day arts festival that transforms Birmingham’s downtown neighborhood into an arts district, featuring the work of 100+ visual artists alongside live musicians, street performers, food and drink vendors, and children’s activities.
BIRMINGHAM BOYS CHOIR
birminghamboyschoir.org
48th Annual Christmas Concert, Dec. 7
The choir performs your holiday favorites to celebrate the Christmas season at Samford University’s Leslie Wright Center.
BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE
bct123.org
Dot and Ziggy, Sept. 13-27
Meet Dot the ladybug and Ziggy the skunk—neighbors who couldn’t be more different. But with a little help from a wise spider—and the encouragement of the audience—Dot and Ziggy begin to discover the joy of cooperation. This show is designed for our youngest theatergoers.
The Cat Man of Aleppo, Sept. 26-27
The Cat Man of Aleppo is a true story that follows Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, an ambulance driver in war-torn Syria who creates a sanctuary for stray cats, bringing hope and kindness to a devastated city. Join us for this staged reading of a powerful new play created for young audiences.
The City Mouse and the Country Mouse, Oct. 25-Nov. 8
When a country mouse visits her city cousin, both are surprised by how different their lives are. But as their adventure unfolds, they come to realize that home truly is where the heart is. This Wee Folks Theatre show is perfect for children ages 4-8.
Narnia The Musical, Dec. 6-20
Step through the wardrobe into the magical world of Narnia, where adventure awaits and courage is tested. This enchanting musical adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s classic is a perfect journey for the whole family. It is recommended for children ages 6 and older.
BIRMINGHAM FESTIVAL THEATRE
bftonline.org
Who’s Holiday! Dec. 5-21
She is back, by popular demand! WHO’S HOLIDAY! Is a wildly funny and heartfelt adults-only comedy that tells the story of Cindy Lou Who as she recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken.
BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART
artsbma.org
Ancient American Gallery, Sept. 13
Over thousands of years, Indigenous people in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean built great civilizations and creative traditions across continents. Complex societies rose, fell, and rose again, creating an enduring legacy of exceptional art. Experience these artworks with expanded interpretation in the BMA’s new Ancient American gallery, opening on September 13.
ArtLit w/ Thank You Books: Ashley Jones, Sept. 14
The BMA and Thank You Books are pleased to offer another installment of Art Lit. Together with Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones, they will be launching Ashley’s much-anticipated fourth collection of poetry, Lullaby for the Grieving. Jones served as the first Black and youngest Poet Laureate of Alabama from 2022–2026.
Interwoven: Stories in Fiber and Form, Sept. 24
Drop by the BMA for a midday art fix! Join us for an in-depth discussion of the BMA’s new exhibition, Interwoven: Stories in Fiber and Form. We will discuss the artistic practices and themes that come together in this exhibition.
BLUFF PARK ART ASSOCIATION
bluffparkartassociation.org
The 62nd Annual Bluff Park Art Show, Oct. 4
The Bluff Park Art Show is a vibrant celebration of creativity that brings together talented artists and passionate community members right here in Hoover! The show draws over a hundred local and regional artists and thousands of attendees, with proceeds supporting local arts initiatives. Check out the show at Bluff Park Community Park.
BROADWAY IN BIRMINGHAM
americantheatreguild.com/birmingham
Wicked, Sept. 3-21
Catch the hit musical Wicked at the BJCC Concert Hall, presented by Broadway in Birmingham! Set against stunning visuals and a memorable score, including hits like “Defying Gravity,” Wicked challenges the traditional notions of good and evil in a magical yet poignant tale.
Clue, Nov. 11-16
Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.
Kimberly Akimbo, Nov. 25-30
A new musical about growing up and growing old (in no particular order), Kimberly Akimbo is the winner of 5 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush…and possible felony charges.
DJD THEATER AT THE ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS
djdtheater.org
Edgar Meyer/Tessa Lark/Joshua Roman, Nov. 14
This collaboration brings together three singular figures in American concert music—virtuoso instrumentalists with fierce classical chops, deep connections to roots and fiddle music, and wide-open artistic sensibilities.
Ursula Smith Presents: The Brown Sugar Nutcracker, Dec. 13
Don’t miss Ursula Smith’s ever-evolving holiday classic, “The Brown Sugar Nutcracker.” Ursula Smith has re-imagined the traditional tale to create a cultural holiday experience for the City of Birmingham and the Southeast region.
Eric Essix: The 25th Anniversary, Dec. 21
In September 2000, Eric Essix released Southbound, a career-defining album where he consciously chose to explore and embrace his Southern musical roots. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Southbound’s release, Eric has gathered musicians from the original Fame Studios recording session to perform songs from the album onstage.
FIND ART BIRMINGHAM (FAB)
mossrockfestival.com
Moss Rock Festival, Nov. 1-2
This one-of-a-kind, outdoor fall weekend welcomes thousands of visitors annually to the Hoover Met to explore Nature, Art + Design, Smart Living and more. Special features include a beer garden, WonderKid Studios, sculpture projects, and other exhibitions.
HOMEWOOD THEATRE
homewoodtheatre.com
Cabaret Knight With the Cahaba Chamber Chorale, Sept. 5
This incredibly talented ensemble is made up of professional singers, vocalists, teachers, and professors from several states across the southeastern region. Join them for a night of “mystery and mayhem” as they ditch the choir robes and “go medieval” on a cabaret show!
Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, Sept. 18-21
During an ostentatious wedding reception at a Knoxville, Tennessee estate, five reluctant, identically clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom, each with her own reason to avoid the proceedings below. They joyously discover a common bond in this wickedly funny, irreverent, and touching celebration of the women’s spirit.
The Butler Did It, Oct. 9-19
This murder mystery comedy will have you guessing as you try to figure out “whodunit.” No one is really as they appear … but you’ll be on the edge of your seat, and laughing at the same time!
Steel Magnolias, Dec. 4-14
Classic southern comedy with lots of laughs and a little bit of heart! Everyone remembers the movie starring Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Julia Roberts. This one makes you remember it’s better to have “30 minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.”
THE LIBRARY THEATRE
thelibrarytheatre.com
The Jason Bishop Show, Oct. 23-24
Magician/Illusionist Jason Bishop performs stunning, original, state-of-the-art magic in a fast-paced evening of comedy, sleight of hand, audience participation, exclusive grand illusions and dexterous close-up magic projected onto a massive screen. He has starred in two of his own shows on Broadway.
New Directions Veterans Choir, Nov. 20-21
Founded by former homeless Marine George Hill, New Directions Veterans Choir is an award-winning a cappella group that sings renditions of pop, doo-wop, soul, gospel and Great American Songbook standards.
Christmas in Killarney, Dec. 9-10
Created by the 2009 World Champion of Irish Dance Scott Doherty and worldwide touring Irish musician Chris Smith, this exciting show combines the excitement of world-class Irish dance with the harmonies of traditional seasonal classics.
OPERA BIRMINGHAM
operabirmingham.org
Sounds of the Season, Dec. 14
Kick off the holidays at Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall with a concert of favorites both sacred and secular. This family-friendly concert is jam-packed with classic Christmas carols and beloved holiday songs!
RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE
edmountaintheatre.org
Human Rights New Works Festival, Sept. 26-28
Now in our eighth year, this festival welcomes new voices, powerful works, and transformative performances to the stage. It features four theatrical works that delve deep into our shared human experiences: “Baby Cow,” “Our Lady of 7-Eleven,” “Don’t Ask,” and “Dynamite Hill: A Different Kind of Love Story.”
Arthur Brooks, Oct. 9
Arthur Brooks, the acclaimed author, Harvard professor, and columnist for The Atlantic, is one of the world’s foremost experts on the science of human happiness. Enjoy an evening of cocktails, meaningful discussion, and an exclusive book signing at the Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus.
Holiday Spectacular 2025, Dec. 4-21
It’s our annual celebration of everything we love about the season, from chaotic joy to quiet warmth, all tied up with a big sparkly bow. Seventy-five performers take the stage for classic carols and modern music, plus new surprises every year!
SAMFORD UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
samford.edu/arts/
Faculty Gala, Sept. 9
Join us for an evening of performances by our School of the Arts faculty at Brock Recital Hall.
Orchestra Concert, Oct. 7
A performance by the Samford Orchestra will take place at Brock Recital Hall.
Montague Concert, Oct. 8
Boren’s Courtyard sets the stage for a concert performance by the School of the Arts’ Commercial Music ensemble, Montague. This band plays student originals in addition to rock, country, and pop’s hottest hits.
Fall Choir Concert, Oct. 23
Multiple Samford choirs will perform at Brock Recital Hall in this fall concert.
Ellie Holcomb: Beauty in the Broken, Nov. 6
Ellie Holcomb will once again be live from the Samford University Wright Center stage. Join us for an uplifting evening of music that will inspire all who hear Ellie’s powerful music.
45th Annual Hanging of the Green, Dec. 4
Experience the beauty of this beloved tradition to prepare for the holy season of Christmas through music, scripture, and prayer.
TERRIFIC NEW THEATRE
terrificnewtheatre.com
The Spitfire Grill, Oct. 9-26
A troubled young parolee decides to start her life off fresh in a rural, Wisconsin town. She quickly finds a job at the local diner, “The Spitfire Grill.” Her presence, and the unveiling of an idea, spark both suspicion and hope in this sweet community.
Ripcord, Dec. 4-21
Abby, a cantankerous woman who enjoys the solitude of her sunny room, is being forced to accept Marilyn as her new roommate. They couldn’t be more opposite, and this difference in personalities causes immediate friction at the Bristol Place Senior Living Facility.
THEATER UAB
uab.edu/cas/theatre
Dead Man’s Cell Phone, Oct. 15-19
Answering a stranger’s incessantly ringing cell phone leads a troubled woman to confront her own assumptions about morality, mortality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world.
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Nov. 12-16
A distant heir to a family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm… and a dash of murder.
VIRGINIA SAMFORD THEATRE
virginiasamfordtheatre.org
Carole Cook Died for My Sins, Sept. 18-21
In this raw and revelatory solo show, actor Mason McCulley delivers a heartfelt tribute to two pivotal women in his life: his late mother and the legendary actress Carole Cook, a protégé of Lucille Ball. This 75-minute performance invites audiences into an intimate exploration of grief, addiction, and self-discovery. Tickets from the opening night will benefit the Magic City Acceptance Center.
To Kill a Mockingbird, Dec. 11-21
VST will celebrate Harper Lee’s 100th birthday with Christopher Sergel’s compelling adaptation of the seminal Pulitzer Prize–winning novel. Seen through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the play explores themes of racial injustice and moral growth in 1930s Alabama.
