Birmingham Village Players — Attraction in Birmingham

The shows this theater produces are indeed strong, but the leadership culture behind them is troubling. During my time with the company (two mainstage productions and one cabaret over about a year and a half), I saw a clear divide between the quality of the performances and the care for the people creating them.

After I reported a more serious recent incident to members of leadership, it was deflected and ultimately ignored. In a follow-up call with a board member, he emphasized that their priority was “getting shows on stage,” not addressing what happens between cast members offstage. That response made it clear that actor/performer safety and accountability are not treated as part of their responsibilities.

From the outside, the organization looks polished and community-oriented. Inside, it lacks consistent, transparent leadership when harm occurs, and more troublingly, behind the curtain in rehearsals and offstage.

The company prioritizes polished productions and familiar faces over genuine community. Long-standing contributors, especially skilled musicians or directors who have been around for years - also seem to operate without accountability.

When serious issues arise, leadership’s focus stays on keeping shows running and maintaining optics, not on addressing harm. This makes it difficult for newer members like myself to feel safe or valued. Connections at this theater stay surface-level because the culture doesn’t encourage honesty or care beyond the stage.

The theater’s attention to sets, ticket sales, and production value is clear, but that same energy is rarely shown for the well-being of the people creating the work. New or prospective members/actors should be mindful of this culture and take care to understand how leadership handles concerns before committing their time energy, and...

Attended the Fall 2024 performance of Memphis. First experience with this venue and troupe. Fantastic all around experience with extremely talented actors/vocalists and well done staging!! The only downside was that our seats were far-right front row, which I thought would be amazing due to the size of the theatre. Unfortunately, some of the curtain effects and prop (furniture) placement resulted in significant obstructive views for portions of the show. The stage was deep enough that this should have been caught and adjusted for during rehearsals. Will definitely be returning, but choosing...

Short experimental plays by local playwrights. Some were just OK, but at least 2 were very entertaining. The idea is to give them audience response so their work can be improved, discarded, or expanded for production.

A very enjoyable evening, and free, too, although contributions were solicited, and we were most happy to help with this excellent program.

Afterwards there was a meet and greet with the authors and actors. I would recommend this the next time it is presented by the Birmingham...