Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center

Community Programs

Learn more about the programs we offer to the community. We strive to enrich the lives of both students and adults through a diverse array of free to low-cost arts education and outreach performances, events, and classes throughout the season.

Prelude Discussions


Preludes enhance your enjoyment of the show
The Story Behind the Sound
Join us prior to each performance in the Birmingham Music Club Classically Inclined Series for Preludes. These enlightening 30-minute discussions are designed to enhance your enjoyment of the program by providing insight into the music and artists. Held in the intimate Reynolds-Kirschbaum Recital Hall, these discussions are free and begin one hour prior to each performance. Performances in this series include:



World-class performances for kids


Creative theatrical productions spark your child's imagination


Kids and parents love the ASC Kids' Club


ASC Kids' Club shows make great "family days"

ASC Kids' Club Series

Weekend Performances for Kids & Families
Spend quality time with your kids while introducing them to the beauty and excitement of live performance! The ASC Kids' Club Series is recommended for ages 5-12, however all ages are welcome. Tickets are only $8! Series includes the following events:


Martin Hames Arts Mentoring Program


Students excel with our mentoring program
The Alys Stephens Center has developed an Arts Mentoring Program to introduce middle school and high school students to the arts. Local artists and arts educators serve as volunteer mentors and are paired with students to attend specific performances throughout the Alys Stephens Center's 2009-10 Season.

Students will participate in facilitated group discussions ("Talk Backs") immediately following each performance, and on occasion will have the chance to meet the guest artists. This unique arts learning experience is designed to create a safe environment in which to discuss and share ideas, values, and feelings, which the arts stir, and to encourage leadership and critical thinking.

In addition, the group discussions enable students to interact with professionals in the field. This year-long program will culminate in a final event for participants, parents, and mentors. For more information, call (205) 934-0862.


ASC's "Make It Happen" Performing Ensemble

ASC's "Make It Happen" Performing Ensemble

Through a partnership with "Make it Happen" Performing Ensemble and the Birmingham City Schools, the ASC invites high school students to audition for this performance based program in which students will attend weekly theatre classes and rehearsals that will culminate in the performance entitled, "Extraordinary Americans Who Happen to be…" This performance will be researched, written, and performed by the student participants as part of the ASC Kids' Club series. Additionally, students selected for the ensemble will also participate in the Martin Hames Arts Mentoring Program. Students invited into the program will be required to make a year-long commitment to all practices, performances, and activities associated with the program. Auditions will take place in the early fall. For more details call (205) 934-0862.