Comeback Town: Look out Broadway – Birmingham is ‘comin’

Birmingham – The Magic City of Dreams

From the heart of the Magic City Birmingham, Red Mountain Theatre (RMT) continues to astonish the world with its potential for nurturing arts and the youth. Since 2003, Keith Cromwell, RMT Executive Director, has seen dreams turn reality in Birmingham and is immensely proud of it.

It was a sceptical move for Cromwell to relocate from New York to Birmingham, but the city’s overwhelming enthusiasm, support, and appreciation for the arts reassured him. The testament to Birmingham’s true love for the arts is the opening of the Red Mountain Theatre’s 60,000 square foot Arts Campus – a hub of creativity that has radically changed the lives of local artists and young performers.

National Significance and Impact

While there is evidence showing that the arts are a multi-million dollar economic driver for Birmingham, most may not fully comprehend the national significance, impact and rarity of such an incredible development. Cromwell wants to shed some light on the artists who have found a training ground here in Birmingham where they have discovered a place to fit in, apply their rigor to work, and learn what it truly means to be an artist.

The Magic Called “Show”

Four talented professionals currently working in the industry have Red Mountain Theatre to thank for a part of their journey. Their success compliments the unprecedented foundation of training, nurturing, and support given by the gifted array of teachers, coaches, and industry connections in Birmingham.

Brandon McCall, who initially worked for the Mayor’s Division of Youth Services, leapt from Birmingham to star as Simba in the Broadway production of Disney’s The Lion King.

In middle school, Jordan Fisher found his way to RMT and from there, has accomplished many things that we find hard to choose one highlight. He starred in Broadway productions including Hamilton, Dear Evan Hanson, and the revival of Sweeney Todd, and now Hadestown.

Audrey Cardwell’s remarkable journey started here too. She caught the eye of many when she played Marion, opposite Hugh Jackman in the Broadway revival of The Music Man.

And finally, Abigail Barlow launched a solo artist career, won a Grammy, and most recently, wrote the music (with Emily Bear) for Disney’s Moana 2.

Birmingham – Fostering the Artistic Journey

All of these success stories and countless others are a testimony of how Birmingham takes pride in investing in the arts. Keith Cromwell, alongside other talents, has put Red Mountain Theatre on the national artistic map as a symbol of Birmingham’s commitment to the arts, culture and the unmatched potential of its youth.