Community Theater

Community Theatre is alive and well in Alabama.

From the sunny Gulf shores to the tip-top of the state, community theatre artists practice their craft in front of appreciative audiences as they all experience the joy of live theatre. ACT has identified over 65 active groups in the state and is always on the lookout for more. Actors, stage directors, musical directors, choreographers, and musicians collaborate with scenic, lighting, sound, costume, and property artists — often just for the love of theatre – producing critically acclaimed productions from musicals to dramas, and everything in between.

The highlight of ACT’s CT Division is an annual festival. Last year, six community theatres from around the state competed to represent Alabama at the Southeastern Theatre Conference. South City Theatre’s “Driving Miss Daisy” and “The Wetumpka Depot Theatre’s “Second Samuel” took top honors and advanced to SETC. “Second Samuel” went on to win on the regional level and represent SETC at AACTFest ’11 in Rochester this past June. They brought home standing ovations and acting nominations for several performers.

This year’s festival will be October 14-16, 2011 at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL. At this writing there are three shows: South City Theatre’s “Agnes of God,” Wetumpka Depot Players, “The Sugar Bean Sisters,” and Whole Back Stage Theatre’s “Recess!” Workshops, a silent auction, and a talent competition for individuals and couples are also scheduled. To attend and enjoy great community theatre from across the state, check out the ACTFest ’11 page and contact me–I’d love to see you there!

Kevin Garrett

Community Division Chair

kevingarrett@rocketmail.com