Birmingham, AL, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Encore Theatre and Gallery will open its new season with the performance of ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ at the Carver Theatre in Birmingham. This collaborative effort aims to promote cultural unity while highlighting the journey of an 11-year-old girl discovering her talent for spelling. The show runs for three days, featuring evening and matinee performances, with ticket prices ranging from $29.95 to $54.95, supporting local artists and the theater scene.
Birmingham, AL to Host “Akeelah and the Bee” in 2025-2026 Season
Encore Theatre and Gallery will commence its 2025-2026 season with the theatrical production of “Akeelah and the Bee”, written by Cheryl L. West. The performances are set to take place from October 2 to October 4, 2025, at the historic Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts, located at 1631 Fourth Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203.
The show’s schedule includes evening performances starting at 7:30 PM on both October 2 and 3, concluding with a matinee performance on October 4 at 10:30 PM. Ticket prices range from $29.95 to $54.95, with tickets available for purchase on Encore Theatre’s official website.
Collaboration with Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
This production marks a significant collaboration between Encore Theatre and Gallery, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, and the Carver Theatre. This partnership aims to promote cultural unity and community engagement within Birmingham, reflecting the city’s commitment to supporting local artists and live performance.
In “Akeelah and the Bee”, audiences follow the journey of Akeelah Anderson, an 11-year-old girl from a challenging neighborhood in Chicago, as she uncovers her talent for spelling. The narrative explores themes such as resilience, courage, and the transformative nature of words, making it a valuable story for audiences of all ages.
Support and Impact on the Community
Encore Theatre and Gallery is the only Black-led theatre company in Birmingham, focused on amplifying diverse voices through innovative storytelling and performances. As the company celebrates its seventh season, it emphasizes its mission of merging artistry with community involvement.
Each ticket purchased not only supports the performance but is also viewed as a vote for the power of stories, highlighting the importance of live theatre in fostering community connections. With the upcoming season, the theater is promoting an environment where families, schools, and individuals aged 9 to 99 can appreciate the arts together.
Future Outlook for Encore Theatre
Looking ahead, Encore Theatre is actively working towards completing a permanent performance space downtown, ensuring continued support for local artists and the local theater scene. The success of “Akeelah and the Bee” is expected to bolster these efforts and encourage future productions that celebrate cultural diversity and artistic expression.
Conclusion
As Birmingham prepares for this exciting production, community members are encouraged to embrace the opportunities that live theater presents for education, entertainment, and engagement. With the themes presented in “Akeelah and the Bee”, Encore Theatre and Gallery aims to inspire resilience and belief in oneself through the magic of storytelling.
FAQ Section
What is the premise of “Akeelah and the Bee”?
The play follows Akeelah Anderson, an 11-year-old girl from a challenging neighborhood in Chicago, as she discovers her talent for spelling and competes in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
When will the performances take place?
Performances will be held from October 2 to October 4, 2025, with evening shows at 7:30 PM on the 2nd and 3rd, and a matinee show on the 4th at 10:30 PM.
Where is the performance venue located?
The play will be performed at the Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts, located at 1631 Fourth Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203.
What is the ticket price for “Akeelah and the Bee”?
Ticket prices range from $29.95 to $54.95 and are available for purchase through Encore Theatre’s website.
Chart of Key Event Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | Akeelah and the Bee |
| Playwright | Cheryl L. West |
| Venue | Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts |
| Dates | October 2-4, 2025 |
| Performance Times | 7:30 PM (Oct 2 & 3), 10:30 AM (Oct 4) |
| Ticket Prices | $29.95 – $54.95 |
| Recommended Audience | Families, Schools, Ages 9-99 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Broadway World: Akeelah and the Bee
- Wikipedia: Akeelah and the Bee
- Broadway World: The Minutes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Live Theatre
- Broadway World: POTUS Launch
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