Béla Fleck.The Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a lineup that has audiences buzzing.
Performances kick off this month, and tickets are on sale now, plus new artists and events are being announced.
The Alys Stephens Center is part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Center for the Arts.
For its 30th year, ASC Director Heath Mixon says his focus is presenting a more well-rounded season, and more choices, to audiences. This season is Broadway-heavy, but just by chance, Mixon says. Pre-show experiences for ticketholders are being amped up, such as Broadway Open Mic before the Sept. 27 Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp of “RENT” show, a bluegrass jam before the Béla Fleck show Oct. 15, and more.
The Young Concert Artists series will now feature daytime performances, with artists in residence at UAB. In partnership with Arts in Medicine and ArtPlay, the residences are designed to give the community, for young to elder, more opportunities to attend.
For tickets or more information, visit AlysStephens.org or call the Box Office at 205-975-2787.
UAB staff and student discounts are available. Student rush tickets are available for any student. UAB students can purchase $10 student tickets to nearly any show.
Become a UAB Center for the Arts member today to unlock exclusive early ticket access and perks like valet service, free pre-show receptions, special events and more. For the latest updates and announcements, follow the Alys Stephens Center on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
For its milestone 2026-2027 season, the Alys Stephens Center presents:
Friday, Sept. 18
2026 Arts Block Party featuring Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience
The biggest arts celebration of the season with music, art, food and fun for all ages. Enjoy food trucks, music, giveaways and vendors. The galleries at the Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts will be open for guests to explore, with hands-on art activities from UAB Arts in Medicine and ArtPlay. Then dance the night away at an outdoor concert on 10th Avenue led by “zydeco master” and Grammy Award winner Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience. Doors open at 5 p.m., concert at 7 p.m. 1200 10th Ave. South. Admission is free and open to the public.
Sunday, Sept. 27
30 Years of “RENT”: Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of rock musical “RENT.” Join Broadway icons and original cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp for an unforgettable night of music, with favorites from the show, musical theater classics and songs that inspired them along the way. Known for originating the roles of Roger and Mark, respectively, Pascal and Rapp bring powerhouse vocals and behind-the-scenes stories to this unforgettable concert experience, which The New York Times called “a revelatory show.” Tickets from $25. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early for Broadway open mic in the lobby.
Friday, Oct. 9
Bernadette Peters, 2026 VIVA Health Gala
Join the legendary Bernadette Peters for a magical and inspiring evening of song from the great music masters. Winner of multiple Tony Awards and a critically acclaimed star of stage, film, television and recordings, Peters will perform celebrated selections from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Jerry Herman, among others. The VIVA Health Gala is a spectacular night supporting the UAB Center for the Arts, a collective organization for visual and performing arts at UAB. All net proceeds will directly support programming. Included in the $199 ticket are valet parking, access to all pre-performance festivities and experiences, with hors d’oeuvres and beverages, including a new specialty mocktail, and a complimentary show cup, along with premium seating for the performance. Buy tickets. 5 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Thursday, Oct. 15
Béla Fleck, “My Bluegrass Heart”
Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus of Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin.Welcome banjo master Béla Fleck, winner of 19 Grammy awards, for an evening of groundbreaking musicianship and rich acoustic sound. Fleck has pushed every limit of the banjo with his staggering musicality, creating inspired blends of bluegrass, fusion, folk, jazz, classical, global music and more, and earned a reputation as one of the most brilliant instrumentalists. Reuniting an all-star lineup of bluegrass masters, and next-generation stars, this dynamic performance will offer both longtime fans and new listeners an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most vibrant musical traditions. Tickets from $35. 7:30 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early for a bluegrass jam session in the lobby before the show.
Sunday, Oct. 18
Black Violin reimagines the possibilities of classical music, blending virtuosic violin and hip-hop, R&B and pop. High school orchestra classmates Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus have been merging string arrangements with modern beats and vocals for nearly two decades. The duo recently received their second Grammy Award nomination for Best Americana Performance for their collaboration with The Blind Boys of Alabama, “The Message.” Their nonprofit, Black Violin Foundation Inc., provides access to quality music programs in their community. Reaching more than 100,000 students each year through performances in urban communities, the group is challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions of how a classical musician should look and sound, while inspiring a new generation to dream boldly. Tickets from $25. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early for music by DJ Swayze in the lobby before the show.
Sunday, Oct. 25
“Moonlight Princesses: A Tribute to Demon Hunters”
This high-energy, anime-inspired pop performance for fans of all ages is inspired by the global rise of K-pop storytelling. Featuring strong female characters, “Moonlight Princesses: A Tribute to Demon Hunters” blends dynamic live vocals, precision choreography, cinematic music and immersive visuals. Thoughtfully designed for families with young children, the playful show invites kids to sing and dance and celebrates powerful themes — confidence, resilience, friendship and the triumph of light over darkness. A limited-availability, post‑show
meet‑and‑greet with the performers is available to add to tickets. This show is not affiliated with Netflix or the film “KPop Demon Hunters.” Tickets from $15. 3 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Costumes are encouraged; come early for a dance party in the lobby before the show.
Sunday, Nov. 1
“Little Red’s Most Unusual Day” with Opera Birmingham
Introduce your young ones to opera with “Little Red’s Most Unusual Day.” Opera Birmingham is Alabama’s largest professional opera company, entertaining audiences since 1955. Families will enjoy this operatic version of the story of “Little Red Riding Hood” based on scenes from operas by J. Offenbach and G. Rossini. Forest Ranger Dudley is too shy to ask Little Red’s mom to the ball; but when he leaves a written invitation with flowers outside Little Red’s house, the basket is delivered to Granny by mistake. Filled with music, laughter and enchanting family fun, this Pay What You Choose show is a whimsical adventure perfect for all ages. Part of the Pay What You Choose series. Reserve a ticket and pay only what you choose. Get tickets. 2 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early for kids’ art activities in the lobby with ArtPlay before the show.
Tuesday, Nov. 10
Hanzhi Wang and Anthony Trionfo
A stunning chamber music experience featuring two extraordinary Young Concert Artists:accordionist Hanzhi Wang and flutist Anthony Trionfo, in residence at UAB. This mid-morning concert is a rare opportunity to experience world-class musicianship with Pay What You Choose admission. Celebrated for her staggering virtuosity and magnetic stage presence, Wang is a trailblazing ambassador for the accordion and the only player of her instrument ever selected by Young Concert Artists in its 65-year history. Trionfo, praised for his “soaring” tone and breezy virtuosity, will join her; his dynamic performances span leading orchestras, recital halls and international stages. Together, these acclaimed musicians bring passion, innovation and artistry to a compelling concert experience. Reserve a ticket and pay only what you choose. Get tickets. 10 a.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Thursday, Nov. 12
India Hicks.A special evening with India Hicks — designer, entrepreneur, author and celebrated lifestyle tastemaker — for an intimate fireside chat and book signing. Drawing on a life that spans the worlds of design, fashion, travel and philanthropy, Hicks will share personal stories, creative insights and lessons from her remarkable career. Known for her signature blend of British elegance and island-inspired living, she has inspired audiences around the world through her books, business ventures, and distinctive approach to life and style. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of storytelling, inspiration and conversation with one of today’s most engaging voices in design and lifestyle. Limited tickets from $45. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Following the conversation, guests will have the opportunity to meet Hicks during a book signing.
Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2027
Will Guidara
An inspiring evening of learning and connection with business leader, hospitality visionary and bestselling author Will Guidara. Under his leadership as co-owner, Eleven Madison Park received four stars from The New York Times, three Michelin stars, and in 2017 was named No. 1 on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. In a special fireside chat, the author of “Unreasonable Hospitality” will share insights on leadership, workplace culture, employee engagement and creating exceptional customer experiences. Ideal for business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and community members. Tickets from $249 with early-bird pricing before Oct. 1. 4:30 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Stay after the program for a cocktail hour of networking and conversation.
Sunday, Jan. 31, 2027
Gospel legends Blind Boys of Alabama will lead a powerful, once-in-a-lifetime celebration, performing Stevie Wonder’s iconic album “Songs in the Key of Life” in honor of their 50th anniversary. Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts and The Recording Academy/Grammys with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and winners of six Grammy Awards, they have attained the highest levels of career achievement in music. Reimagining Wonder’s 1977 Album of the Year through their soul-stirring harmonies and gospel roots, this special performance bridges generations of musical excellence and celebrates legacy, innovation and the enduring power of music to uplift and unite. Tickets from $19. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2027
Experience a captivating daytime Pay What You Choose performance with a special solo artist, pianist Chaeyoung Park, who will be in residence at UAB. Praised by New York Concert Review as a performer who “does not play a single note without thought or feeling,” Park brings a compelling repertoire spanning French Baroque works by Rameau, Beethoven sonatas and music by living composers such as Unsuk Chin. In 2019, she became the first female Korean pianist to win the Hilton Head International Piano Competition which led to her Carnegie Hall solo debut and a performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. Park is the winner of the 2022 Young Concert Artists’ Susan Wadsworth International Auditions. Reserve a ticket and pay only what you choose. Get tickets. 10 a.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Sunday, Feb. 28, 2027
Renowned for her luminous voice, emotional depth and record-breaking achievements on Broadway, Audra McDonald is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry both as a singer and as an actor. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy, in 2015 she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people and received the National Medal of Arts, America’s highest honor for achievement in the field, from President Barack Obama. She will make her highly anticipated first appearance at the Alys Stephens Center at 7 p.m. for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling with a program that spans generations of song. This special debut promises to be a landmark moment for Birmingham audiences and a highlight of the season. Tickets from $59. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Sunday, March 7, 2027
Feel the rhythm and experience the energy live of the world’s first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, a powerful form of percussive dance rooted in African American culture. Using styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional African movement, and an array of contemporary forms, Step Afrika! also features integrated songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation to make each performance unique. The program features innovative new choreography alongside signature works shaped through the company’s long-standing collaboration with South Africa, highlighting the global impact of stepping traditions. Step Afrika! promotes stepping as an educational tool for young people, focusing on teamwork, academic achievement and cross-cultural understanding. Tickets from $15. 5 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Friday, March 12, 2027
Samara Joy.When the Alys Stephens Center polled audiences on who they most wanted to see again for the 30th season celebration, six-time Grammy Award-winning jazz sensation Samara Joy was at the top. One of today’s most captivating artists, Joy’s interpretations and rich, velvety voice breathe new life into classic jazz standards while honoring their timeless legacy. Few figures in jazz history have experienced the kind of meteoric success that Joy has at just 25, with appearances at the Newport, Monterey and Montreal jazz festivals, and on iconic stages like the Apollo, Carnegie Hall, the Village Vanguard and Jazz at Lincoln Center. With a Best New Artist Grammy win as well as an NAACP Image Award, Joy has achieved the kind of profile typically reserved for pop celebrities. A favorite among younger music fans, she uses her social media platform to introduce timeless American music to new generations. Tickets from $49. 7:30 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early and hear students from theDepartment of Music’s jazz program perform in the lobby before the show.
Sunday, March 14, 2027
Experience gravity-defying thrills and mechanical marvels with Cirque Mechanics in “Tilt!” Inspired by the exhilaration and artistry of amusement parks, this high-energy spectacle fuses breathtaking acrobatics, aerial feats and jaw-dropping circus skills, and inventive, human-powered machinery. With humor, heart, retro style and astonishing physical skill, the show delivers big energy and nonstop excitement, a feel-good theatrical thrill ride for circus fans, theater lovers and anyone ready to rewind. Filled with neon-soaked nostalgia and unmistakable 1980s flair, “Tilt!” is a high-flying homage to America’s iconic amusement parks and an adventure for audiences of all ages. Tickets from $29. 3 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
- Come early for carnival games and fun in the lobby before the show.
Friday, April 16, 2027
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain
Featuring brilliantly reimagined covers of contemporary favorites, the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain will bring its internationally acclaimed music and comedy show. The Orchestra rose from humble beginnings to become global touring sensations, beloved around the world for their wit, virtuosity and unmistakable charm. Their live performances reinvent everything from rock classics and pop hits to classical favorites, spanning punk, funk, disco, bluegrass and even metal. Each show is an all-singing, all-strumming, full-throttle experience — smart, surprising and wildly entertaining for music lovers of all ages. Armed with nothing but ukuleles, this iconic ensemble delivers genre‑defying performances marked by dazzling musicianship and sharp humor. In 2026, the Orchestra celebrates its 40th anniversary, having performed everywhere from Australasia to the North Pole, Windsor Castle to Carnegie Hall. Tickets from $25. 7:30 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Sunday, May 16
Eric Essix, “30: A Retrospective”
Experience an evening of gratitude and inspired music as two legacies come together and celebrate 30. This special evening with Alabama Jazz Hall of Famer Eric Essix will mark the release of his 30th album, “Things Above,” and bring together his band and special guests for “30: A Retrospective.” Rooted in contemporary jazz but deeply shaped by the emotional language of gospel, blues and soul, Essix’s music carries both technical sophistication and spiritual depth. Over a career spanning more than 38 years and 29 full-length albums, Essix has built a body of work defined by artistic excellence, consistency and personal evolution. For “30: A Retrospective,” Essix will revisit defining moments of his career while sharing new music that reflects where his artistry is headed. Joined by friends and collaborators who helped shape his journey, he celebrates this personal milestone alongside a venue that has been central to Birmingham’s cultural life for three decades. Tickets from $29. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
Friday, Jun 25, 2027
A soulful, sophisticated and deeply moving night of timeless music, powerful emotion and the unmatched artistry of one of today’s most celebrated performers. Tony and Grammy award-winner Leslie Odom Jr. will bring his extraordinary voice, magnetic stage presence and artistry spanning across genres to Birmingham. Odom captivates audiences with his signature charm and heartfelt storytelling, creating an intimate, inspiring and unforgettable live experience. Odom, who received an Academy Award nomination for his acclaimed portrayal of Sam Cooke in “One Night in Miami,” will perform selections from the American songbook, reimagined pop favorites and beloved musical theater classics. That includes songs from “Hamilton,” the Broadway phenomenon that earned him a Tony Award for his iconic portrayal of Aaron Burr. Tickets from $55. 7 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.