Comeback Town: Look out Broadway – Birmingham is ‘comin’
Birmingham – The Magic City of Dreams
From the heart of the Magic City Birmingham, Red Mountain Theatre (RMT) continues to astonish the world with its potential for nurturing arts and the youth. Since 2003, Keith Cromwell, RMT Executive Director, has seen dreams turn reality in Birmingham and is immensely proud of it.
It was a sceptical move for Cromwell to relocate from New York to Birmingham, but the city’s overwhelming enthusiasm, support, and appreciation for the arts reassured him. The testament to Birmingham’s true love for the arts is the opening of the Red Mountain Theatre’s 60,000 square foot Arts Campus – a hub of creativity that has radically changed the lives of local artists and young performers.
National Significance and Impact
While there is evidence showing that the arts are a multi-million dollar economic driver for Birmingham, most may not fully comprehend the national significance, impact and rarity of such an incredible development. Cromwell wants to shed some light on the artists who have found a training ground here in Birmingham where they have discovered a place to fit in, apply their rigor to work, and learn what it truly means to be an artist.
The Magic Called “Show”
Four talented professionals currently working in the industry have Red Mountain Theatre to thank for a part of their journey. Their success compliments the unprecedented foundation of training, nurturing, and support given by the gifted array of teachers, coaches, and industry connections in Birmingham.
Brandon McCall, who initially worked for the Mayor’s Division of Youth Services, leapt from Birmingham to star as Simba in the Broadway production of Disney’s The Lion King.
In middle school, Jordan Fisher found his way to RMT and from there, has accomplished many things that we find hard to choose one highlight. He starred in Broadway productions including Hamilton, Dear Evan Hanson, and the revival of Sweeney Todd, and now Hadestown.
Audrey Cardwell’s remarkable journey started here too. She caught the eye of many when she played Marion, opposite Hugh Jackman in the Broadway revival of The Music Man.
And finally, Abigail Barlow launched a solo artist career, won a Grammy, and most recently, wrote the music (with Emily Bear) for Disney’s Moana 2.
Birmingham – Fostering the Artistic Journey
All of these success stories and countless others are a testimony of how Birmingham takes pride in investing in the arts. Keith Cromwell, alongside other talents, has put Red Mountain Theatre on the national artistic map as a symbol of Birmingham’s commitment to the arts, culture and the unmatched potential of its youth.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
