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Arts & Events March 16, 2026

Ira Glass, a man with a beard and glasses wearing a dark suit jacket and white shirt, sits at a table in a restaurant holding a cup.Glass, creator and host of the iconic public radio program “This American Life,” will share insights from his decades in storytelling.Legendary storyteller Ira Glass, creator and host of the iconic public radio program “This American Life,” will share lessons from his career in a live event Saturday, April 18, presented by the Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center.

Seven Things I’ve Learned” showcases Glass at his best, in a live, multimedia show filled with insights from his decades in storytelling and public radio. Using audio clips, music and video, he focuses on navigating the creative process, embracing failure, finding your own “taste” and the importance of producing high volumes of work to improve skills. 

Glass began his career in 1978 as a 19-year-old NPR intern in Washington, D.C. After 17 years working in nearly every production role, including as a reporter, he moved to Chicago and launched “This American Life” in 1995, transforming public radio storytelling with millions of listeners around the world. Glass emphasizes that early, unpolished work is necessary, arguing that creators must push through the “gap” between their taste and their skill.

The show is at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $39. Buy tickets

The Alys Stephens Center is part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Center for the Arts. Discounted tickets are available for UAB staff and students. Visit AlysStephens.org, call the Alys Stephens Center Box Office at 205-975-2787 or visit the ASC Box Office, 1200 10th Ave. South, for more information.

Arts Circle member benefits include VIP parking and access to a pre-show reception in the Abroms Patrons Lounge for beverages and hors d’oeuvres one hour prior to the performance. Learn more or become an Arts Circle member. 

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