It’s been a little quiet around here lately… and if you’ve been following along, you’ve probably noticed.
The truth is that life has been full in the best (and busiest) ways. Real estate has picked up in a big way this year and in between helping clients navigate one of the biggest decisions of their lives, I’ve also been soaking in a pretty special season at home—my son’s graduation is right around the corner. If you’ve ever walked through a milestone like that, you know how quickly time seems to speed up. To top it off, I’ve started a dinner theatre troupe (Front Row Theatre Troupe) and our first production opens tonight and runs for one weekend.
Somewhere in the middle of all of that, my writing routine slowed down more than I’d like to admit.
But here’s what hasn’t changed: my commitment to this year’s goal of publishing two books.
I haven’t walked away from the stories. Not even close. If anything, they’ve been quietly growing in the background—taking shape in snippets of notes, late-night ideas, and those moments where inspiration shows up at the most inconvenient times (like in the middle of a showing or while driving between appointments).
Sometimes the creative process isn’t about constant output. Sometimes it’s about living enough life to have something meaningful to write about.
That said… I’m ready to get back to it.
Over the next few weeks, you’ll start to see more from me again—both here on the blog and behind the scenes as I move these projects forward. I’m excited about what’s coming, and I think you will be too. There are stories in the works that feel deeper, more layered, and more alive than anything I’ve written before.
Thank you for your patience, for sticking with me, and for continuing to care about the stories I’m telling.
We’re not behind… we’re just building momentum.
And the best is still ahead.
The empty page can either be exciting or frustrating… Today it is exciting!
Front Row Theatre Troupe in partnership with Main Street Cafe Present
Linguine Loneliness and Love by Stacy Kingsley
SYNOPSIS:Linguini, Loneliness, and Love is a comedic yet heartfelt play set in the closing hours of a small restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama. As the staff winds down after a long shift, three restaurant workers—an overworked waitress, a quietly devoted dishwasher, and a chef drowning her regrets in vodka—find themselves reflecting on life, dreams, lost opportunities, and unexpected connections.
With two mischievous commentators observing and riffing on the action from the sidelines, the evening unfolds through stories of rude customers, broken hearts, abandoned ambitions, and the fragile hope that love and purpose might still be waiting somewhere beyond the dining room doors.
PERFORMANCE LOCATION: Main Street Cafe (101 Main St, Madison, AL 35758)
DATES/TIMES:
April 23rd at 6:00 PM – $65 Per Ticket includes dinner and performance
April 24th at 6:00 PM – $65 Per Ticket includes dinner and performance
April 25th at 6:00 PM – $65 Per Ticket includes dinner and performance
April 26th at 1:00 PM – $60 Per Ticket includes dinner and performance
Stacy Kingsley is an award-winning author of fiction and plays. Her zombie series is in its final stages, as she works on the last of the series, Zombimerica. She has two books that will be releasing soon – a science fiction/horror book and a non-fiction book about the stupid things people say when someone dies. Stacy published a book called Meowthin’ Off that included conversations with her cats, Maggie and Ruffus.
She is currently working on a few plays, and won an award for her play The Depth of Scars through the Rockey City Playwright Series. Stacy is in awe of actors and wish she had a little more talent to be in the plays, although maybe not in the ones she has written since they involve too many words and emotions. Linguine, Loneliness, and Love is her first long play (she mostly writes one act plays), and hopes everyone enjoys is.
MEET THE DIRECTOR:
NINA SODEN
Nina Soden is a storyteller, director, and producer with a lifelong passion for the stage. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts and Communications from Eastern Michigan University, Nina has spent decades working both onstage and behind the scenes in nearly every aspect of theatre production—from acting and directing to set design, stage management, and technical direction.
Her directing credits include beloved productions such as The Importance of Being Earnest, Arsenic and Old Lace, and You Can’t Take It With You, and she has brought compelling performances to life in roles ranging from classic drama to contemporary comedy. In addition to her theatre work, Nina has appeared in numerous films, commercials, and web productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
As the founder of Front Row Theatre Troupe, Nina is passionate about creating immersive, high-quality theatrical experiences that connect audiences and performers in meaningful ways. Her vision blends storytelling, community, and creativity—bringing theatre to life beyond the traditional stage.
Outside of theatre, Nina is an accomplished novelist and a successful real estate team leader in North Alabama, where she brings the same dedication, creativity, and heart to everything she does.
MEET THE CAST:
VALERIE LAWDENSKY as Monica
Dr. Valerie Lawdensky is a nuclear rocket analyst at NASA but always planned on being an actress. She took a break for college but since returning to acting in 2019, she’s performed in 3 musicals, 4 plays, and 1 musical staged production in Los Alamos, Albuquerque, and Huntsville. Her favorite roles were Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family Musical, Mrs. Whatsit in A Wrinkle in Time, Lydia Wickham and Mary Bennet in separate productions of Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly, and Princess Fred in Once Upon a Mattress. She also proudly competed in the virtual competition Barbershop Royale making music videos and performing with her quartet. But she’s most excited to bring these local playwrights’ characters to life for the first time through Front Row Theatre Troupe!
JASON SUMMER as Albert
Jason has been acting in community theater since 2010, performing in Huntsville, AL, at the University of North Alabama, and in Valparaiso, IN. Some of his favorite roles include Rev. Oglethorpe from “Smoke on the Mountain”, Dr. Seward from “Dracula: Lord of the Vampires”, Col. Arbuthnot from “Murder on the Orient Express”, and The Old Man from “A Christmas Story”. Jason is excited to be part of his first dinner theater production and hopes you all enjoy the play!
TANJA MILLER as Chef Danika
Tanja Lewis Miller is honored to play a part in the newly formed Front Row Theatre Troupe. As Membership Director for Broadway Theatre League and Co-Owner of Evil Cheez Productions, the performance arts consume pretty much 99% of her life, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. So much love to Nina, her sis from another miss, for including her in this dream project. Love to the cast and crew and all the playwrights for their ridiculous talent. Love to Wayne, her favorite Shmoo. And thank YOU, the audience, for making all this possible!
STEPHANIE HYATT as Commentator 1 (4/23 & 4/24)
Stephanie Hyatt is thrilled for this opportunity to play with friends and as you enjoy good food! Her theater jaunts around Huntsville have been numerous, acting in shows with Theatre Huntsville, Fantasy Playhouse, and the beloved but defunct Renaissance Theatre. Lately, she’s been more busy costuming than acting, but is excited to share this stage with both friends and dinner!
STACY NEUBERGER VON-HOFFMAN as Commentator 2
Stacy Neuberger-von Hoffman has acted in a variety of genres and mediums. Stacy was in a few short films where she mostly had the privilege to die. As a child she was on television a few times, once on The Richard Simmons Show, and she was previewed on a few other television shows. Stacy tried out for and was in a few game shows as well. Stacy as been in productions of Clue, Duck Hunter Shoots Angel, Rocky Horror Show, The Hounds of Baskerville, Damsel of the Desert, and a few Shakespeare plays. She is excited to go on this new journey with the Front Row Theatre Troupe.
WAYNE MILLERas Rude Customer
Wayne Miller, when he’s not directing or producing for Evil Cheez Productions, occasionally appears onstage. And if he’s going to appear onstage outside of ECP, it has to be for a good reason – like Nina Soden. He thanks Nina for the chance to just act and sends love to Shmoo and krew.
PREMISE: A crew of space explorers wake up to find themselves in a blank world with only a giant red button in their midst.
SYNOPSIS: When a crew of space explorers suddenly wakes up in a blank dreamscape with only a giant red button in front of them, they panic. The last thing they all remember is being approached by an alien ship. After the initial shock and exploration, they realize they have nowhere to go and nothing to do but push the button. Over the course of the play, they discover that they all have secrets, and the worst one of all is that one in their number betrayed them to the aliens. If they don’t ferret out who and why, they’ll never get out.
Disclaimer: Theatre Happenings has never and will never sell or share your information with anyone. All information you provide via the links (Submission Form, Giveaway Entry Form, and Feedback Form) within this newsletter is used solely for the purposes of Theatre Happenings and its moderator (Nina Soden) to ensure the best experience possible.
ANNOUNCEMENT:
THERE WILL BE NO NEWSLETTER NEXT WEEK (TUESDAY, MARCH 17TH) DUE TO SPRING BREAK. I HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEK!
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCED
PRODUCTIONS
EVENT
GROUP
LOCATION
DATE
Balet Magnificat, a professional Christian Ballet Company
Adonai Ballet Studio
The Dream Theatre
3/10
Mrs. Doubtfire
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
3/27-3/29
A Streetcar Named Desire
Theatre Huntsville
Von Braun Center Playhouse
3/27-4/5
Dreams in Flight
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/11
42nd Street
Bob Jones High School Patriot Players
Bob Jones High School Auditorium
4/16-4/25
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
4/17-4/26
Give Me Justice
Valley Consort
Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison & Faith Presbyterian Church, Huntsville
4/24-4/25
Video Games Live
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/25
Bolero
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/2
Water for Elephants
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/5-5/10
1776 – The Musical
Theatre Huntsville
Von Braun Center Playhouse
6/12-6/28
Oklahoma
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
6/19-6/28
Anastasia the Musical
College Street Players
Hartselle High School Auditorium
6/18-6/20
The Prince of Egypt The Musical
IMP
Mainstage Theatre at Lee High School
7/16-7/19
Dear Evan Hansen
IMP
Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center
10/16-10/18
Come From Away
IMP
Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center
11/19-11/22
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION
DETAILS
GROUP/ETC
LOCATION
DATE
ACTORS WANTED
Front Row Theatre Troupe
Madison, AL
Ongoing
PLAYWRIGHTS WANTED
FRONT ROW THEATRE TROUPE
Madison, AL
Ongoing
AUDITION – Anastasia The Musical
College Street Players
Hartselle Junior High School
3/19-3/22
SUBMISSION REQUESTS
MONTHLY GIVEAWAY DETAILS
ABOUT ME:
Rehearsal Notes
When I first started doing theatre, I dreaded getting rehearsal notes. Eventually, I realized they weren’t an attack; they were about teamwork. Each note made me a better actor and the show stronger.
That’s how I view feedback in real estate, too. Every question, every idea from my clients helps refine the process. Together, we build something better than we could alone. Collaboration makes the final performance shine.
Nina Soden (Associate Broker/Realtor, The Soden Team at LEGEND REALTY)
Erin, you’ve won two tickets to Broadway Theatre League’s performance of Mrs. Doubtfire on Friday, March 27th. A representative of the Broadway Theatre League will be in touch with you shortly to reserve your seats.
Check out the upcoming giveaways below. The next winner will be announced on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. It could be you!
UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS:
Sponsor: Theatre Huntsville Production: A Streetcar Named Desire Ticket Date/Time: Any Performance – Arranged after the winner is announced WINNER ANNOUNCED: MARCH 24, 2026
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Water for Elephants Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: APRIL 21, 2026
Sponsor: Theatre Huntsville Production: 1776 – The Musical Ticket Date/Time: Any Performance – Arranged after the winner is announced WINNER ANNOUNCED: JUNE 9, 2026
Sponsor: College Street Players Production: Anastasia the Musical Ticket Date/Time: Any Performance – General Admission Tickets WINNER ANNOUNCED: JUNE 16, 2026
Balet Magnificat, a professional Christian Ballet Company
Date: Tuesday, March 10th at 7:00 PM
Performed at: The Dream Theatre (3401 Holmes Ave., Huntsville, AL)
Synopsis: Inspired by the humble life of Elisabeth Elliot, The Call is a ballet that shares the goodness of God through life’s joys and challenges. Watch Ms. Elliot’s memories unfold as she answers the call to write a book recounting how she and her fellow missionaries worked to bring the good news of the gospel to a hostile tribe in Ecuador. As her life takes unexpected turns, she is forced to find her hope in the only thing that remains. Choreography by Silas Fennema
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: MRS. DOUBTFIRE – A new musical comedy about the things we do to stay together.
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Huntsville in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
Out-of-work actor Daniel Hillard will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, MRS. DOUBTFIRE teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father. A hysterical and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, this is the musical comedy we need right now – one that proves we’re better together.
Single Tickets go on sale October 23, 2025!
Run Time: 2 Hours 35 Minutes Includes Intermission
Synopsis: Passion, power, and madness collide in Tennessee Williams’ masterpiece, A Streetcar Named Desire. When the fragile and elegant Blanche DuBois arrives in New Orleans to stay with her sister Stella, she clashes with Stella’s brutish husband, Stanley Kowalski, in a battle of secrets, survival, and shattered illusions.
Performed at: Von Braun Center Playhouse (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
8800 Belle Mor Drive Madison, AL 35757 NEWLY PAINTEDNEW CARPET Seller offering a 1-1 temporary interest-rate buydown with FHA financing through the seller’s preferred lender!
Custom-built, all-brick home in Belle Mor Lakes w/ 3B/2B & features an in-home office, formal dining room, breakfast nook, galley kitchen, bonus/flex room, & large backyard concrete patio on .33 acres. The secluded master suite is situated at the back of the home for extra privacy. Master BR has double-insulated interior walls to reduce noise. Beautiful marble kitchen countertops, GE stainless steel appliances. LVP flooring (teak) throughout the home (2018). NEW carpeting in front BRs. Quiet belted garage door opener (2019). Generac Whole House Generator w/3 125 Gallon Tanks. Leaf Guard Gutter System – Guaranteed for life. *TDI – Insect/Termite Biological System.
3303 McDow Ave. NW Huntsville, AL
Just minutes from Mid-City and Stovehouse entertainment and event center, this totally remodeled home features new granite countertops, new stainless steel appliances, new LVP flooring and new tile areas. Back yard is fully fenced. New light fixtures and brass hardware throughout. Three sheds on-site provide plenty of storage and all sheds have electric to them. 2-car carport through gate behind house. Seller to provide 1-year home warranty.
600 Lewis Mountain Rd. New Market, AL
Experience serenity & convenience in this one-of-a-kind rancher. Rustic charm & modern comfort on 2 private acres backed up to forest—no neighbors in sight. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch features a covered porch, raised Trex deck, sunroom, & 10×20 storage shed. Enjoy an oversized family room w/vaulted tongue-&-groove ceiling, an expansive eat-in kitchen features Corian counters, custom cabinets, w/breakfast area and is ideal for entertaining, & a master suite w/jetted tub, a separate shower, & large closet. Whole-house generator still under warranty included. Plenty of wildlife. Just 7 min to Buckhorn High, 12 min to shopping & dining, & 30 min to major employers like RSA & Research Park.
Bob Jones High School Patriot Players
42nd Street
Date: April 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th @ 7PM & April 18th, 25th @ 2PM & 7PM
Performed at: Bob Jones High School Auditorium
Synopsis: Set in the Great Depression-era New York City, 42nd Street is a musical in the golden-age style that follows the “American Dream” journey of Peggy Sawyer, a talented but naive young dancer from Allentown, Pennsylvania. After she arrives in the city, Peggy lands a spot in the chorus of a new Broadway production called “Pretty Lady,” directed by the legendary Jullian Marsh. The show’s future is thrown into jeopardy when the temperamental leading lady, Dorothy Brock, breaks her ankle just before opening night. In a desperate move to save the production, Peggy is plucked from the ensemble and given exactly 36 hours to learn the lead role in “Pretty Lady.” She eventually becomes an overnight sensation.
Tickets: Student $12 Adults – $20 Military – $18
Added 3/10/2026
The Whole Backstage
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Date: April 17-26, 2026
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: In Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, the dysfunctional but wealthy Pollitt family gathers to celebrate aging patriarch Big Daddy’s birthday. But there is more to this gathering than a family reunion– Big Daddy, unbeknown to him, is dying of cancer. He is still to decide which of his sons will inherit the estate. His options include favorite son Brick, who drinks himself into oblivion in order to bear the desires of his determined wife, Maggie, or his less-favored son Gooper, his fertile wife Mae, and their “no-neck monster” children. While sensuous Maggie “the cat” tries to work her wiles to secure a future for them, Brick spirals deeper into despair, crippled by both physical pain and emotional loss. Lurking under every practiced interaction between the Pollitts is an ulterior motive, under every smile, a challenge, and under every statement, the spectre of mendacity. For the Pollitts, the truth is as hazy as the late summer sun in Mississippi, and sometimes the only way to find it is to journey through the lies.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
Valley Consort
Give Me Justice
Dates:
April 24th & 25th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison (Fri.)/Faith Presbyterian Church Huntsville (Sat.)
Synopsis: Come and hear (mostly) a cappella choral group Valley Consort in this concert of music on the theme of Mercy & Justice. Composers include Poulenc, Schutz, Bruckner, Barnwell, Byrd, and more.
Tickets: FREE – Donations Accepted
Added 1/25/2026
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Video Games Live
Date: Saturday, April 125th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: Water for Elephants
The critically acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life (Time Out New York) in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical, Water for Elephants! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.”
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Tony Award-nominated director Jessica Stone’s “huge, heart-filling” production (The New York Times) features a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice adapted from Sara Gruen’s novel, and a soaring score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co.
So, step right up to the “spellbinding entertainment” (Variety) at Water For Elephants, “the best new musical on Broadway” (Theatermania).
Single Tickets to this show will go on sale November 4, 2025
Run Time: 2 Hours 40 Minutes Includes Intermission
Synopsis: This Tony Award-winning musical brings history to life with sharp wit, stirring songs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the passionate (and often chaotic) debates that led to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson battle deadlines, doubts, and each other in a race to forge a nation—proving that revolution is anything but easy. Don’t miss this electrifying blend of history and musical theatre!
Performed at: Von Braun Center Playhouse (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: Oklahoma! is a musical set in 1906 Oklahoma Territory, centering on the romance between cowboy Curly McLain and farm girl Laurey Williams. Their love story is complicated by a rival suitor, the menacing farmhand Jud Fry. A comedic subplot follows Ado Annie’s romantic entanglements with her fiancé, Will Parker, and a traveling peddler, Ali Hakim. The musical’s story is driven by these relationships against the backdrop of a community preparing for statehood.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
The Whole Backstage
Anastasia the Musical
Date: June 18-20, 2026
Performed at: Hartselle High School Auditorium
Synopsis: From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
Added 10/21/2025
Independent Musical Productions, Inc. (IMP)
Prince of Egypt The Musical
Dates:
Thursday, July 16th at 7:30 PM
Friday, July 17th at 7:30 PM
Saturday, July 18th at 2:00 PM
Saturday, July 18th at 7:30 PM
Sunday, July 19th at 2:00 PM
Performed at: Mainstage Theatre at Lee High School (2500 Meridian St. N, Huntsville, AL 35811)
SUMMARY: The Prince of Egypt is a sweeping epic of a musical with music and lyrics by Grammy and Oscar winner Stephen Schwartz, a book by Philip LaZebnik, and 10 new songs written by Schwartz, together with five of his songs from the DreamWorks Animation film. The show also features Schwartz’s Academy Award-winning song, “When You Believe.”
Journey through the wonders of Ancient Egypt as Ramses and Moses, two young men raised together as brothers in a kingdom of privilege, find themselves suddenly divided by a secret past. One must rule as Pharaoh, the other must rise up and free his true people; both face a destiny that will change history forever.
Performed at: Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center (7901 Bailey Cove Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35802)
SUMMARY: Featuring a Tony Award-winning book by Steven Levenson (Fosse/Verdon), and a score by Grammy®, Tony®, Emmy® and Academy Award® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land, Dogfight, James and the Giant Peach), Dear Evan Hansen is a new classic, with a message that has resonated with audiences around the world: “You Will Be Found.”
Seventeen-year-old Evan Hansen has felt invisible his entire life. But when a tragedy shocks his community and thrusts him into the center of a rapidly evolving controversy, Evan is given the opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to be somebody else. As his web of well-intentioned lies begins to unravel, though, Evan is forced to confront the fact that the price of belonging may be far steeper than he bargained for.
The show opened at the Music Box Theatre to rave reviews and struck an emotional chord with critics and audiences alike. It went on to win six 2017 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, the Drama League Award for Outstanding Musical Production, two Obie Awards, a Drama Desk Award, two Outer Critics Circle Awards and two Helen Hayes Awards.
Performed at: Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center (7901 Bailey Cove Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35802)
SUMMARY: Come From Away is a critically acclaimed musical featuring a culturally relevant script accompanied by a deeply moving score by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. The show has earned global success with 37 award nominations, 13 of which resulted in wins, most notably Best New Musical at the 2019 Olivier Awards and Outstanding Musical at the 2017 Drama Desk Awards. The show’s global presence resonates across all audiences as an uplifting reminder of humanity’s ability to come together, no matter what the circumstances.
Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
Come From Away gives theatres the opportunity to contribute to its worldwide impact by spreading the show’s message of kindness, unity, and resilience with their communities. With a flexible cast size and possibilities for technical creativity, Come From Away is guaranteed to be a show for audiences to remember.
Looking to buy a new home or maybe a rental property in North Alabama? Check out these great homes:
408 Arcanum Lane New Market, AL
Step into comfort & style in this stunning 5BR/5BA home of thoughtfully designed living space. The open floor plan features a gourmet kitchen w granite counters, SS appliances, gas cooktop, & a lg island that flows into the spacious LR with cozy FP, perfect for everyday living & entertaining. A private in-law suite with full BA is conveniently located on the main level, ideal for guests or multi-gen living. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite offers a relaxing retreat with a sitting area, fireplace & a spa-inspired bath. Add’l BRs and flexible living space provide room for work, play, or hobbies. Enjoy outdoor living with covered patios and a backyard FP perfect for year-round gatherings.
10 Sonya Lane, Florence, AL
Well kept home close to the fire station 3/4 brick with home entry garage and large back deck large living space.
Call me at 256-520-9640 to schedule a showing.
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION:
ACTORS WANTED
A new Theatre Troupe is in town and planning an exciting season of intimate, character-driven productions performed in a live dinner theatre setting in Madison, Alabama.
We are seeking actors who:
• Thrive in close audience proximity
• Are comfortable with light audience interaction (select shows)
• Love bold characters and strong dialogue
• Are collaborative and reliable
• Memorize lines quickly
• Have strong improvisation skills
• Take and remember directions with short rehearsal schedules
Most productions will feature 3–7 cast members. There will be minimal rehearsals (5-7 rehearsals per production). Performances will run Thursday–Saturday evenings with a Sunday matinee, 1–2 weekends per month.
This is a grassroots, community-driven theatre venture in its first season. While roles are volunteer at this stage, actors will gain performance experience in an immersive setting and be part of building something new and exciting in our area.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or returning to the stage after time away, we would love to hear from you.
To express interest:
Email your headshot (or recent photo), resume (if available), full set of contact information, and a short paragraph about your theatre experience to: NinaSodenBooks@gmail.com
Subject line: ACTOR INTEREST – (YOUR NAME)
Audition and/or table read details will be sent to interested actors/actresses.
Let’s bring live theatre back to the table.
CALLING ALL PLAYWRIGHTS
CALL FOR ORIGINAL ONE-ACT PLAYS
A new intimate theatre experience is launching soon, in Madison, Alabama — and we’re seeking original one-act plays (45–60 minutes) for our upcoming season.
We are looking for:
• Original, unpublished works
• 3–7 characters
• Minimal set requirements
• Modern-day costuming
• Limited props
• Comedy, dark comedy, drama, or mystery
• Optional light audience interaction
Our productions will take place in an intimate dinner theatre setting with 40–50 guests per performance. We’re especially interested in scripts that lean into strong dialogue, compelling characters, and storytelling that thrives in close proximity.
Selected works will receive a fully staged production before a live audience and promotion through our marketing efforts.
This is a collaborative, community-based theatre initiative in its launch phase. While we are not currently offering compensation, our goal is to grow into a sustainable model that supports artists as we build.
If you’re a local playwright who would love to see your story come to life in an immersive setting, we would love to read your work.
To submit: Email your contact information, a brief synopsis, character breakdown, and a completed script OR 10–15 page sample to: NinaSodenBooks@gmail.com
Subject line: PLAY SUBMISSION – (PLAY NAME)
Let’s build something bold, intimate, and unforgettable — right here in our community.
Audition Location: Hartselle Junior High School Music Room, 904 Sparkman Street, Hartselle, AL 35640
Audition Materials:
Prepare a 32-bar cut and one-minute dramatic monologue. Speaker will be provided for tracks. Everyone must attend one of the dance calls. Cold reads will be required at the audition. It is highly encouraged that you prepare a song that represents the style of the show.
Video auditions are allowed and must be turned in by March 18th. Please e-mail your audition materials to the director: Jenny Faulk, faulkjp@gmail.com
Casting will primarily be 9th Grade through Adult -there will be limited roles for children age 10-13. Please see our website for character descriptions for recommended ages.
Rehearsals will begin April 14th and will be Monday, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6pm – 9 pm & Saturdays from 9am – 4pm
If you know of anyone in the theater world who would be interested in receiving the ‘weekly’ THEATRE HAPPENINGS newsletter, please share this email with them and ask them to subscribe by reaching out to me directly at ninasodenbooks@gmail.com(There will be an online subscription form coming soon!)
Thank you, and I look forward to receiving your submissions.
My goal is to do a monthly giveaway… That’s right, I want you all to have a chance to win free things…
WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR THE NEXT TICKET GIVEAWAY… If you are a part of an upcoming theater production or theatre/arts event and would like to donate 2 tickets, please give me a call at 256-520-9640 or email me the details atninasodenbooks@gmail.com.
Looking to buy land or rent a phone in North Alabama? Check out this great property:
5.32 Acres PULASKI PIKE, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35810
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home with 5.32 acres of prime land, ideally situated just minutes from the Toyota plant, downtown Huntsville, Research Park, and a wealth of local amenities. Create your private retreat in this highly desirable location!
2521 Lancelot Drive Huntsville, AL
HOME FOR RENT $2300/MONTH Only adult pets (2 years of age or older) are allowed – a maximum of 4 pets. Application Fee: $50 | Application Requirement: Monthly income of 3x monthly rent and a good credit score.
Earlier this year, I made a commitment in writing — I said I would publish two books this year.
That wasn’t a casual goal. It was intentional. A little scary, but very real.
So today, I want to share an update.
Book One of my newest series (NAME TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON) is officially in rewrites.
This stage of the process is one of my favorites — and also one of the most demanding. Rewrites aren’t about fixing something broken. They’re about refining something with potential. They’re where characters deepen, tension sharpens, and themes become clearer. It’s where the story truly becomes what it was always meant to be.
According to my beta readers and editor, the bones are strong and the world is alive. Most importantly, the heart of the story is exactly where I want it to be.
Now it’s about polishing and fine-tuning.
Once rewrites are complete, the manuscript will head to final editing. From there, it’s formatting, cover design, and all the behind-the-scenes pieces that transform a document into a book you can hold in your hands (or download to your device).
If all continues on schedule, I’m hoping for a late April or early May release. Please keep your fingers crossed for me.
I share that carefully — not as a hard promise, but as a target I’m actively working toward. Publishing isn’t just about finishing a draft. It’s about stewarding a story well all the way to the finish line. And I want to do that thoughtfully.
What I can say with certainty is this: the progress is real and I am so excited for you all to meet the characters who have been living in my mind for the past few months.
The world within this story is expanding in ways that excite me. The emotional arcs are landing more deeply. The layers feel richer. Every pass through the manuscript makes it stronger.
When I wrote that New Year’s resolution about publishing two books this year, I meant it. And this is the first major step toward fulfilling that commitment to both my readers and me.
Thank you for following along in this season of creation. Writing can sometimes look quiet from the outside, but there is so much happening beneath the surface. I can’t wait to share more as I move closer to release.
Disclaimer: Theatre Happenings has never and will never sell or share your information with anyone. All information you provide via the links (Submission Form, Giveaway Entry Form, and Feedback Form) within this newsletter is used solely for the purposes of Theatre Happenings and its moderator (Nina Soden) to ensure the best experience possible.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCED
PRODUCTIONS
EVENT
GROUP
LOCATION
DATE
9 To 5 The Musical
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
2/20-2/22
Brahms Violin Concerto
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
2/21
& Juliet
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
2/24-3/1
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical
Dream Weavers Theatre Company
The Princess Theater
3/6-3/8
Jim Brickman & Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
3/7
Mrs. Doubtfire
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
3/27-3/29
Dreams in Flight
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/11
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
4/17-4/26
Give Me Justice
Valley Consort
Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison & Faith Presbyterian Church, Huntsville
4/24-4/25
Video Games Live
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/25
Bolero
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/2
Water for Elephants
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/5-5/9
Oklahoma
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
6/19-6/28
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION
DETAILS
GROUP/ETC
LOCATION
DATE
ACTORS WANTED
NEW THEATRE TROUPE
Madison, AL
Ongoing
PLAYWRIGHTS WANTED
NEW THEATRE TROUPE
Madison, AL
Ongoing
SUBMISSION REQUESTS
MONTHLY GIVEAWAY DETAILS
ABOUT ME:
The Cast Party Connection
After every production, there’s a cast party — a night full of laughter, storytelling, and celebration. It’s about more than the show; it’s about the friendships and teamwork behind it.
Real estate closings feel the same way. After weeks (or months!) of collaboration, we celebrate not just the house, but the journey we took together. Every “sold” sign deserves a little applause.
Nina Soden (Associate Broker/Realtor, The Soden Team at LEGEND REALTY)
Check out the upcoming giveaways below. The next winner will be announced on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. It could be you!
UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS:
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Mrs. Doubtfire Ticket Date/Time: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: MARCH 17, 2026
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Water for Elephants Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: APRIL 21, 2026
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: 9 to 5, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Set in the late 1970s, this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic.
Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?
This high-energy show is ideal for a large, mostly female cast, but also has opportunities for talented male dancers. With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5is the perfect show for community theatres.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
8800 Belle Mor Drive Madison, AL 35757
Custom-built, all-brick home in Belle Mor Lakes w/ 3B/2B & features an in-home office, formal dining room, breakfast nook, galley kitchen, bonus/flex room, & large backyard concrete patio on .33 acres. The secluded master suite is situated at the back of the home for extra privacy. Master BR has double-insulated interior walls to reduce noise. Beautiful marble kitchen countertops, GE stainless steel appliances. LVP flooring (teak) throughout the home (2018). NEW carpeting in front BRs. Quiet belted garage door opener (2019). Generac Whole House Generator w/3 125 Gallon Tanks. Leaf Guard Gutter System – Guaranteed for life. *TDI – Insect/Termite Biological System.
127 Lombard Street Madison, AL
Discover this beautifully crafted 4BR, 3.5BA home featuring both an office and a spacious bonus room. Set in a lively master-planned community zoned for James Clemens, this home blends comfort and style with beams, custom built-ins, plantation shutters, extended cabinetry and dual fireplaces. The kitchen anchors the main floor with quartz surfaces, double ovens and a large island. The main-level suite offers 10′ ceilings and a generous closet. Upstairs 3BR, 2BA, bonus room and 2 walk-in attic spaces. Enjoy the covered patio, outdoor fireplace, smart-home upgrades, full house surge protector & easy access to the pool, lake, trails, park, and fitness center. HOA includes 1GB fiber.
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Brahms Violin Concerto
Date: Saturday, February 21st at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: & JULIET
Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & JULIET asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.
Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including “Since U Been Gone‚” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life‚” “That’s The Way It Is,“ and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more #1 hits than any other artist this century. Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there’s life after Romeo. The only thing tragic would be missing it.
ADVISORY: & Juliet includes flashing/strobe lighting, loud noises, confetti cannons, and pyrotechnics throughout.
Single Tickets go on sale October 14, 2025!
Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: The Princess Theater (112 2nd Ave. NE, Decatur, AL 35601)
SUMMARY: Middle school, ugh. It’s the worst. But Greg Heffley is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe his best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg… no way.
Jeff Kinney’s popular character takes center stage as Greg’s cartoon diary becomes a hilarious and heartfelt musical – now shortened to one hour of music-filled fun! Will Greg’s plans to become popular lead him to sacrifice his one true friend? Can anyone avoid the dreaded Cheese Touch? Grab a hall pass and don’t be late for an adventure familiar to anyone who actually survived middle school.
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: MRS. DOUBTFIRE – A new musical comedy about the things we do to stay together.
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Huntsville in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
Out-of-work actor Daniel Hillard will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, MRS. DOUBTFIRE teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father. A hysterical and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, this is the musical comedy we need right now – one that proves we’re better together.
Single Tickets go on sale October 23, 2025!
Run Time: 2 Hours 35 Minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: In Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, the dysfunctional but wealthy Pollitt family gathers to celebrate aging patriarch Big Daddy’s birthday. But there is more to this gathering than a family reunion– Big Daddy, unbeknown to him, is dying of cancer. He is still to decide which of his sons will inherit the estate. His options include favorite son Brick, who drinks himself into oblivion in order to bear the desires of his determined wife, Maggie, or his less-favored son Gooper, his fertile wife Mae, and their “no-neck monster” children. While sensuous Maggie “the cat” tries to work her wiles to secure a future for them, Brick spirals deeper into despair, crippled by both physical pain and emotional loss. Lurking under every practiced interaction between the Pollitts is an ulterior motive, under every smile, a challenge, and under every statement, the spectre of mendacity. For the Pollitts, the truth is as hazy as the late summer sun in Mississippi, and sometimes the only way to find it is to journey through the lies.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
Valley Consort
Give Me Justice
Dates:
April 24th & 25th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison (Fri.)/Faith Presbyterian Church Huntsville (Sat.)
Synopsis: Come and hear (mostly) a cappella choral group Valley Consort in this concert of music on the theme of Mercy & Justice. Composers include Poulenc, Schutz, Bruckner, Barnwell, Byrd, and more.
Tickets: FREE – Donations Accepted
Added 1/25/2026
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Video Games Live
Date: Saturday, April 125th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: Water for Elephants
The critically acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life (Time Out New York) in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical, Water for Elephants! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.”
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Tony Award-nominated director Jessica Stone’s “huge, heart-filling” production (The New York Times) features a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice adapted from Sara Gruen’s novel, and a soaring score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co.
So, step right up to the “spellbinding entertainment” (Variety) at Water For Elephants, “the best new musical on Broadway” (Theatermania).
Single Tickets to this show will go on sale November 4, 2025
Run Time: 2 Hours 40 Minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: Oklahoma! is a musical set in 1906 Oklahoma Territory, centering on the romance between cowboy Curly McLain and farm girl Laurey Williams. Their love story is complicated by a rival suitor, the menacing farmhand Jud Fry. A comedic subplot follows Ado Annie’s romantic entanglements with her fiancé, Will Parker, and a traveling peddler, Ali Hakim. The musical’s story is driven by these relationships against the backdrop of a community preparing for statehood.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
Looking to buy a new home or maybe a rental property in North Alabama? Check out these great homes:
3303 McDow Ave. NW. Huntsville, AL 35816
Just minutes from Mid-City and Stovehouse entertainment and event center, this totally remodeled home features new granite countertops, new stainless steel appliances, new LVP flooring and new tile areas. Back yard is fully fenced. New light fixtures and brass hardware throughout. New HVAC, new water heater, roof is three years old. Basement/storm shelter has new LVP flooring. Three sheds on-site provide plenty of storage and all sheds have electric to them. 2-car carport through gate behind house. Seller to provide 1-year home warranty.
Call me at 256-520-9640 to schedule a showing.
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION:
ACTORS WANTED
A new Theatre Troupe is in town and planning an exciting season of intimate, character-driven productions performed in a live dinner theatre setting in Madison, Alabama.
We are seeking actors who:
Thrive in close audience proximity
Are comfortable with light audience interaction (select shows)
Love bold characters and strong dialogue
Are collaborative and reliable
Memorize lines quickly
Have strong improvisation skills
Take and remember directions with short rehearsal schedules
Most productions will feature 3–7 cast members. There will be minimal rehearsals (5-7 rehearsals per production). Performances will run Thursday–Saturday evenings with a Sunday matinee, 1–2 weekends per month.
This is a grassroots, community-driven theatre venture in its first season. While roles are volunteer at this stage, actors will gain performance experience in an immersive setting and be part of building something new and exciting in our area.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or returning to the stage after time away, we would love to hear from you.
To express interest:
Email your headshot (or recent photo), resume (if available), full set of contact information, and a short paragraph about your theatre experience to: NinaSodenBooks@gmail.com
Subject line: ACTOR INTEREST – (YOUR NAME)
Audition and/or table read details will be sent to selected applicants.
Let’s bring live theatre back to the table.
CALLING ALL PLAYWRIGHTS
CALL FOR ORIGINAL ONE-ACT PLAYS
A new intimate theatre experience is launching soon, in Madison, Alabama — and we’re seeking original one-act plays (45–60 minutes) for our upcoming season.
We are looking for:
Original, unpublished works
3–7 characters
Minimal set requirements
Modern-day costuming
Limited props
Comedy, dark comedy, drama, or mystery
Optional light audience interaction
Our productions will take place in an intimate dinner theatre setting with 40–50 guests per performance. We’re especially interested in scripts that lean into strong dialogue, compelling characters, and storytelling that thrives in close proximity.
Selected works will receive a fully staged production before a live audience and promotion through our marketing efforts.
This is a collaborative, community-based theatre initiative in its launch phase. While we are not currently offering compensation, our goal is to grow into a sustainable model that supports artists as we build.
If you’re a local playwright who would love to see your story come to life in an immersive setting, we would love to read your work.
To submit: Email your contact information, a brief synopsis, character breakdown, and a completed script OR 10–15 page sample to: NinaSodenBooks@gmail.com
Subject line: PLAY SUBMISSION – (PLAY NAME)
Let’s build something bold, intimate, and unforgettable — right here in our community.
If you know of anyone in the theater world who would be interested in receiving the ‘weekly’ THEATRE HAPPENINGS newsletter, please share this email with them and ask them to subscribe by reaching out to me directly at ninasodenbooks@gmail.com(There will be an online subscription form coming soon!)
Thank you, and I look forward to receiving your submissions.
My goal is to do a monthly giveaway… That’s right, I want you all to have a chance to win free things…
WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR THE NEXT TICKET GIVEAWAY… If you are a part of an upcoming theater production or theatre/arts event and would like to donate 2 tickets, please give me a call at 256-520-9640 or email me the details atninasodenbooks@gmail.com.
Looking to buy land in North Alabama? Check out this great property:
5.32 Acres PULASKI PIKE, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35810
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home with 5.32 acres of prime land, ideally situated just minutes from the Toyota plant, downtown Huntsville, Research Park, and a wealth of local amenities. Create your private retreat in this highly desirable location!
Disclaimer: Theatre Happenings has never and will never sell or share your information with anyone. All information you provide via the links (Submission Form, Giveaway Entry Form, and Feedback Form) within this newsletter is used solely for the purposes of Theatre Happenings and its moderator (Nina Soden) to ensure the best experience possible.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCED
PRODUCTIONS
EVENT
GROUP
LOCATION
DATE
I love you, You’re Perfect… Now Change
Bank Street Players
Banksy Event Venue
2/6-2/8
Open To Suggestions: Valentine’s Day Show
Plumb Line Events
Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre
2/13
9 To 5 The Musical
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
2/13-2/22
The Choir of Man
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
2/13-2/14
Brahms Violin Concerto
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
2/21
& Juliet
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
2/24-3/1
Jim Brickman & Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
3/7
Mrs. Doubtfire
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
3/27-3/29
Dreams in Flight
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/11
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
4/17-4/26
Give Me Justice
Valley Consort
Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison & Faith Presbyterian Church, Huntsville
4/24-4/25
Video Games Live
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
4/25
Bolero
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/2
Water for Elephants
Broadway Theatre League
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
5/5-5/9
Oklahoma
The Whole Backstage
The Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL
6/19-6/28
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION
DETAILS
GROUP/ETC
LOCATION
DATE
Awaken – Audiobook Released
Nina Soden
Amazon
NOW
Beginnings – Audiobook Just Released
Nina Soden
Amazon
NOW
Revenge – Audiobook Just Released
Nina Soden
Amazon
NOW
A Winter Affair
Independent Musical Productions
Trilogy Hotel
2/5
SUBMISSION REQUESTS
MONTHLY GIVEAWAY DETAILS
Lessons from a Flubbed Line
Once during an audition, while performing a monologue, I completely blanked. My heart stopped — but instinct kicked in, and I improvised until the words found their way back. I don’t know if the casting director knew or not. If she did, she never said anything. In the end, I got the part. I learned that sometimes improvisation is not only necessary but also welcomed.
Real estate is full of those moments, too — unexpected hiccups, sudden shifts, creative pivots. Experience has taught me how to stay calm, adapt, and guide my clients through to the final curtain call.
Nina Soden (Associate Broker/Realtor, The Soden Team at LEGEND REALTY)
Sarah, you have won two tickets to Broadway Theatre League’s performance of The Choir of Man on Friday, February 13th. A representative of Broadway Theatre League will reach out to you shortly to schedule your seats.
Lawrence, you have won two tickets to Plumb Line Events’ Open To Suggestions: Valentine’s Day Show on February 13, 2026 at 7:00PM at Fantasy Playhouse. A representative of Plumb Line Events will reach out to you shortly to schedule your tickets.
Check out the upcoming giveaways below. The next winner will be announced on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. It could be you!
UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS:
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: & Juliet Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: FEBRUARY 10, 2026
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Mrs. Doubtfire Ticket Date/Time: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: MARCH 17, 2026
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Water for Elephants Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: APRIL 21, 2026
February 6 & 7; Dinner Theatre at 7:00 PM- Doors Open at 6:00 PM
February 8: Dessert Theatre at 2:30 PM – Doors Open at 1:30 PM
Performed at: Banksy Event Venue
Synopsis: Dinner and a Show! A witty, fast-paced musical comedy that hilariously explores love, dating, marriage, and everything in between—showing how relationships evolve as we grow, change, and learn to love each other anyway. Enjoy dinner (or dessert) catered by Bank Street Grille! Menus choices available at ticket purchase. Cash Bar at all shows.
Tickets: Dinner Theatre: $60 PP – Includes choice of Pork/Chicken Dessert Theatre: $30 PP Cheesecake/Banana Pudding & Coffee CASH BAR available at all shows.https://bankstreetplayers.ludus.com/index.php
Added 1/25/2026
Plumb Line Events
Open To Suggestions: Valentine’s Day
Date: February 13th @ 7PM
Performed at: Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy (3320 SW Triana Blvd, Huntsville, AL 35805)
Synopsis: Fast, Funny, Fully Made-Up! Come give us your Suggestions for this interactive, family friendly, Huntsville original improv comedy show! The show uses audience suggestions to inspire hilarious scenes that the actors come up with on the spot. No two shows are alike, everything is made up, and it is always a good time!
Fans of TV shows like “Whose Line Is It Anyway” will fall in-love with this fast, funny, fully made-up show!
Tickets: $10-$15 at the door or online at Fantasyplayhouse.org
Added 1/25/2026
The Whole Backstage
9 To 5 The Musical
Dates:
February 13th at 7:00 PM
February 14th at 7:00 PM
February 15th at 2:00 PM
February 15th at 7:00 PM
February 20th at 7:00 PM
February 21st at 7:00 PM
February 22nd at 2:00 PM
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: 9 to 5, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Set in the late 1970s, this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic.
Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?
This high-energy show is ideal for a large, mostly female cast, but also has opportunities for talented male dancers. With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5is the perfect show for community theatres.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
8800 Belle Mor Drive Madison, AL 35757 OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1/25/26 from 2-4PM
Custom-built, all-brick home in Belle Mor Lakes w/ 3B/2B & features an in-home office, formal dining room, breakfast nook, galley kitchen, bonus/flex room, & large backyard concrete patio on .33 acres. The secluded master suite is situated at the back of the home for extra privacy. Master BR has double-insulated interior walls to reduce noise. Beautiful marble kitchen countertops, GE stainless steel appliances. LVP flooring (teak) throughout the home (2018). NEW carpeting in front BRs. Quiet belted garage door opener (2019). Generac Whole House Generator w/3 125 Gallon Tanks. Leaf Guard Gutter System – Guaranteed for life. *TDI – Insect/Termite Biological System.
Broadway Theatre League
The Choir of Man
Dates:
February 13, 2026 at 7:30 PM
February 14, 2026 at 1:00 PM
February 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: THE CHOIR OF MAN
THE RUNAWAY INTERNATIONAL HIT IS COMING TO HUNTSVILLE! Known across the globe as “the ultimate-feel good show,” The THE CHOIR OF MAN offers up one hour of indisputable joy for all ages! It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best pub “lock-in” you’ve ever been to. Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, The THE CHOIR OF MAN has something for everyone. A multi-talented cast of nine handsome guys combines hair-raising harmonies, foot-stomping singalongs, world-class tap dance and poetic meditations on the power of community in this riotously enjoyable homage to that gathering place we’ve all missed so much over the last year: your local pub. With a real working bar on stage, come ready to drink in the action. The first round’s on us. Cheers!
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: & JULIET
Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & JULIET asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.
Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including “Since U Been Gone‚” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life‚” “That’s The Way It Is,“ and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more #1 hits than any other artist this century. Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there’s life after Romeo. The only thing tragic would be missing it.
ADVISORY: & Juliet includes flashing/strobe lighting, loud noises, confetti cannons, and pyrotechnics throughout.
Single Tickets go on sale October 14, 2025!
Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: MRS. DOUBTFIRE – A new musical comedy about the things we do to stay together.
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Huntsville in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
Out-of-work actor Daniel Hillard will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, MRS. DOUBTFIRE teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father. A hysterical and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, this is the musical comedy we need right now – one that proves we’re better together.
Single Tickets go on sale October 23, 2025!
Run Time: 2 Hours 35 Minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: In Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, the dysfunctional but wealthy Pollitt family gathers to celebrate aging patriarch Big Daddy’s birthday. But there is more to this gathering than a family reunion– Big Daddy, unbeknown to him, is dying of cancer. He is still to decide which of his sons will inherit the estate. His options include favorite son Brick, who drinks himself into oblivion in order to bear the desires of his determined wife, Maggie, or his less-favored son Gooper, his fertile wife Mae, and their “no-neck monster” children. While sensuous Maggie “the cat” tries to work her wiles to secure a future for them, Brick spirals deeper into despair, crippled by both physical pain and emotional loss. Lurking under every practiced interaction between the Pollitts is an ulterior motive, under every smile, a challenge, and under every statement, the spectre of mendacity. For the Pollitts, the truth is as hazy as the late summer sun in Mississippi, and sometimes the only way to find it is to journey through the lies.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
Valley Consort
Give Me Justice
Dates:
April 24th & 25th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Messiah Lutheran Church, Madison (Fri.)/Faith Presbyterian Church Huntsville (Sat.)
Synopsis: Come and hear (mostly) a cappella choral group Valley Consort in this concert of music on the theme of Mercy & Justice. Composers include Poulenc, Schutz, Bruckner, Barnwell, Byrd, and more.
Tickets: FREE – Donations Accepted
Added 1/25/2026
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
Video Games Live
Date: Saturday, April 125th at 7:30 PM
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)
Synopsis: Water for Elephants
The critically acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life (Time Out New York) in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical, Water for Elephants! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.”
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Tony Award-nominated director Jessica Stone’s “huge, heart-filling” production (The New York Times) features a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice adapted from Sara Gruen’s novel, and a soaring score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co.
So, step right up to the “spellbinding entertainment” (Variety) at Water For Elephants, “the best new musical on Broadway” (Theatermania).
Single Tickets to this show will go on sale November 4, 2025
Run Time: 2 Hours 40 Minutes Includes Intermission
Performed at: The Whole Backstage Theatre (1120 Rayburn Ave/Dot Moore Way, Guntersville, AL 35976)
Synopsis: Oklahoma! is a musical set in 1906 Oklahoma Territory, centering on the romance between cowboy Curly McLain and farm girl Laurey Williams. Their love story is complicated by a rival suitor, the menacing farmhand Jud Fry. A comedic subplot follows Ado Annie’s romantic entanglements with her fiancé, Will Parker, and a traveling peddler, Ali Hakim. The musical’s story is driven by these relationships against the backdrop of a community preparing for statehood.
Tickets: Call 256-582-7469
Added 10/21/2025
Looking to buy a new home or maybe a rental property in North Alabama? Check out these great homes:
3303 McDow Ave. NW. Huntsville, AL 35816
Just minutes from Mid-City and Stovehouse entertainment and event center, this totally remodeled home features new granite countertops, new stainless steel appliances, new LVP flooring and new tile areas. Back yard is fully fenced. New light fixtures and brass hardware throughout. New HVAC, new water heater, roof is three years old. Basement/storm shelter has new LVP flooring. Three sheds on-site provide plenty of storage and all sheds have electric to them. 2-car carport through gate behind house. Seller to provide 1-year home warranty.
Call me at 256-520-9640 to schedule a showing.
OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION:
New audiobooks released by yours truly, Nina Soden, YA Urban Fantasy Author!
Synopsis: Join us on February 5, 2026 for a night of exquisite food, stunning silent auction opportunities, live music and dancing! This formal, black-tie optional occasion will be unlike anything you’ve seen before.
All proceeds raised will be allocated to their new facility, a space that will allow their all-volunteer company to continue to deliver Broadway-caliber musicals to the Huntsville Community.
If you know of anyone in the theater world who would be interested in receiving the ‘weekly’ THEATRE HAPPENINGS newsletter, please share this email with them and ask them to subscribe by reaching out to me directly at ninasodenbooks@gmail.com(There will be an online subscription form coming soon!)
Thank you, and I look forward to receiving your submissions.
My goal is to do a monthly giveaway… That’s right, I want you all to have a chance to win free things…
WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR THE NEXT TICKET GIVEAWAY… If you are a part of an upcoming theater production or theatre/arts event and would like to donate 2 tickets, please give me a call at 256-520-9640 or email me the details atninasodenbooks@gmail.com.
Looking to buy land in North Alabama? Check out this great property:
5.32 Acres PULASKI PIKE, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35810
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home with 5.32 acres of prime land, ideally situated just minutes from the Toyota plant, downtown Huntsville, Research Park, and a wealth of local amenities. Create your private retreat in this highly desirable location!
I’m a little late to the New Year’s resolutions conversation—and honestly, that feels fitting.
I’ve never been great at January declarations. They tend to arrive before the year has fully revealed itself, before the dust settles, before I know what kind of energy the months ahead will actually require. February feels more honest. More awake. More intentional. More me.
So here it is—written down, on purpose, for the whole world to see. Or at least those few of you out there who are hanging on and visiting my website. I truly appreciate you more than you could ever know.
This year, I am committing to publishing two books.
Writing that goal down feels equal parts exhilarating and terrifying, which is how I know it matters. This isn’t a wish or a vague hope or a “someday.” It’s a decision. One rooted in consistency, discipline, and trust in the work I’ve been quietly building behind the scenes.
I’ve spent a long time learning how I write best, because trust me – we authors are not all the same. I’ve learned how stories take shape for me, how worlds reveal themselves slowly, and how forcing the process never leads to the kind of work I’m proud of. But I’ve also learned that creativity needs commitment just as much as it needs space. At some point, the dreaming has to meet the doing.
This is that moment.
Publishing two books this year doesn’t mean rushing the stories or cutting corners. It means showing up when it would be easier to wait. It means protecting writing time. It means choosing progress over perfection and trusting that the stories will meet me halfway if I meet them with consistency.
There are worlds I’ve been carrying for quite some time now. Characters who refuse to be quiet. Themes that keep circling back, asking to be explored fully and honestly. Those stories deserve to exist beyond my drafts folder.
So, this is me saying it out loud, in public, where I can’t quietly walk it back later.
By the end of this year, two of those stories will be released into the world.
I don’t know exactly how the year will unfold, none of us do. But what I do know is that there will be hard days, slow chapters, and moments where doubt tries to convince me to play small. But I also know this: I am capable of finishing what I start. I have done it before, and I will do it again. I will keep you updated monthly with my progress. It will come in the form of a post… likely something excited and hurried when things are going well and something short and hushed when writing is a struggle, but updates will come, good or bad.
This post isn’t for pressure. It’s for accountability. It’s a reminder to myself that the work matters—and that believing in your stories sometimes looks like choosing to stand behind them before anyone else sees them.
So here’s to a slightly late resolution, written with intention and hope.
If you’ve been wondering whether I’m still here—still writing, still imagining, still chasing stories late at night—I wanted to answer that question plainly and honestly.
Yes. I’m still here. And yes, I’m still writing.
The past two years have been one of those seasons that look quiet from the outside but feel anything but on the inside. The kind where words are being shaped slowly, where stories are tested and re-tested, where worlds are being built with care rather than urgency. Not every chapter is written in public, and not every creative season announces itself loudly—but that doesn’t mean the work isn’t happening.
It is.
I’ve been spending time in two very different story spaces. One is filled with wonder, light, and the kind of magic that asks readers to believe again. The other leans darker, asking harder questions about survival, memory, and what remains when everything familiar is stripped away. They couldn’t be more different on the surface, and yet they share the same heartbeat: characters searching for truth, belonging, and hope in worlds that challenge them at every turn.
I’m being intentionally careful with these stories. Not because I’m unsure of them—but because I believe some worlds deserve patience. I want them to arrive fully themselves, not rushed or diluted by timelines that don’t serve the story. If you’ve followed my work for any length of time, you know I care deeply about atmosphere, emotional resonance, and the slow unfolding of meaning. That hasn’t changed.
What has changed is the depth of the work.
I’ve grown as a writer over the last few years—not just in craft, but in confidence. I trust my instincts more. I’m more willing to sit with difficult scenes until they say what they need to say. I’m less interested in chasing trends and more interested in telling stories that linger after the final page.
That’s the energy behind the stories I’m working on right now.
While I’m not ready to share titles, covers, or plot details just yet, I am hopeful—and quietly excited—to have something ready to share later this year. When it’s time, you’ll be the first to know. And when these stories do step into the light, they’ll do so with intention.
If you’re a reader who has been waiting, wondering, or checking back from time to time—thank you. Your patience means more than you know. Writing can sometimes feel like a solitary act, but it’s never done in isolation. Knowing there are readers who care, who remember, who are willing to wait—that matters.
So this is simply a small note to say: I haven’t gone anywhere.
I’m still building worlds. I’m still chasing characters who refuse to leave me alone. I’m still writing toward something I believe is meaningful.
And I can’t wait to share it with you when the time is right.
In my everyday, real‑world life, I’m a Realtor. I lead The Soden Team of Legend Realty. I coach new real estate agents to build their dreams… their businesses. I talk about homes, contracts, inspections, negotiations, market shifts, and deadlines. I answer my phone – a lot. I send emails at odd hours. I help people navigate one of the biggest decisions of their lives, and I genuinely love that work.
But here’s the part most people don’t know.
I have a secret life.
When the day quiets down, when the inbox is closed and the showing schedule is finally clear, I slip into another world. One filled with characters and conflict, tension and hope, what‑ifs and maybes. I’m not unlocking doors or analyzing comps — I’m building worlds, chasing scenes, and listening to voices that don’t exist anywhere but, on the page, and in my mind.
If you found your way to this website, that probably isn’t a secret to you. You might already know about the books, the stories, the interviews, the projects that live here. But what might surprise you is that for many people in my real, day‑to‑day life… this part of me is still hidden in plain sight.
And here’s the twist: for some of the people reading this, my real‑world job might be the surprise.
“Wait,” you might be thinking, “you’re a Realtor?”
For a long time, I thought those two things lived in separate boxes. One was practical, grounded, responsible. The other was creative, private, a little bit wild. I worried that sharing both would confuse people — or that one would somehow cancel out the other.
But the truth is, they inform each other in ways I didn’t expect.
Real estate taught me how to listen. Writing taught me how to notice. Real life gives me endless inspiration for stories, and storytelling helps me connect more deeply with the people I serve every day.
Still, calling writing my secret life feels right.
Because it’s the part of me that shows up early in the morning or late at night. The part that exists quietly alongside everything else. The part that isn’t always visible, but is always there — waiting.
And I know I’m not alone in that.
So many people carry secret lives with them.
Maybe yours is a hobby you don’t talk about much. A creative dream you haven’t shared yet. A business idea scribbled in a notebook. A passion you explore in stolen moments between responsibilities. A version of yourself that feels very real — even if not many people see it.
I’d love to hear about it.
If you’re comfortable, tell me about your secret life. The thing you love. The thing you dream about. The part of you that lives just beneath the surface.
Because sometimes, sharing the secret is how it starts to feel real.
And who knows — maybe it was never meant to stay a secret at all.
Urban fantasy readers are a special breed. If you’ve ever looked at a dark alley and wondered what might be lurking just out of sight, this genre probably already has you in its grip.
Here are 15 signs you’re definitely an urban fantasy reader—and why this genre keeps pulling us back. Yup, us, I love reading and writing urban fantasy!
1. You Love the Idea of Magic Existing Right Now
Urban fantasy isn’t about far-off worlds. It’s about this one—just with secrets hidden beneath the surface. It might be a magical underworld… vampires hiding in plain sight… werewolves that come out with the full moon… you get the picture.
2. Cities Feel Alive to You
Subways, rooftops, abandoned buildings—urban fantasy turns cities into living, breathing characters. Those dark alleys no one ventures into in the real world… they are full of characters we love to hate between the pages of novels, safe in our homes.
3. You Believe the Ordinary Is Never Truly Ordinary
That barista? Probably a witch. That stranger on the bus? Maybe not human. Even your mom, your dad, your best friend’s cousin… no one is safe from speculation when you dive into an urban fantasy adventure.
4. You Love Strong, Flawed Protagonists
Urban fantasy heroes are rarely perfect—and that’s the point. Let me ask you this: Who among us is perfect? Movie superheroes are portrayed as almost God-like with their perfect personalities. However, in real life, as in urban fantasy, most heroes have flaws just like you and me, and oftentimes even worse.
5. Found Family Hits Hard
These stories thrive on chosen family, loyalty, and unlikely alliances. We can’t pick the family we are born into, but the family we do select can be even stronger. Urban fantasy stories flourish when the ‘found family’ aspect is at its best.
6. You Enjoy Darker Themes
Urban fantasy isn’t afraid of shadows, trauma, or moral gray areas. Not going to lie… there are often trigger warnings associated with many of the dark urban fantasies. Go in with caution… enjoy with an open mind.
7. You Love Rules to Magic
Magic systems matter—and breaking them always comes with consequences. This is pretty self-explanatory. Rules exist, no matter what world you live in. Break the rules and pay the price.
8. You Enjoy Slow-Burn Romance
Romance exists, but it never overshadows the story. That feeling of ‘what if’ or ‘just do it’ will come up, but it is rarely the driving force.
9. You Like Stories That Feel Real
Even with magic, the emotional stakes stay grounded. Urban fantasy reality, even when adding the element of magic or supernatural beings, doesn’t have to seem pretend or far-fetched.
10. You’re Drawn to Mythology
Gods, demons, fae, legends—urban fantasy reimagines them all. I love me some Greek mythology, which is the inspiration for a lot of urban fantasy stories.
11. You Love Secrets
Every chapter feels like peeling back another layer… diving deeper into a world we aren’t supposed to know exists. Maybe it does… maybe it doesn’t… who’s to say? The stories come from somewhere.
12. You Like Power With a Price
Again, nothing comes without consequences.
13. You Prefer Dark Humor
Sarcasm and grit go hand-in-hand in this genre. Do your friends often tell you that you have a dark sense of humor or that your humor is dry or harsh? Yeah, you just might fit in with the rest of us!
14. You Love Worlds That Feel Just Out of Reach
Urban fantasy whispers, This could be real. Urban fantasy calls to readers… drawing them in, but often keeping them peeking through the window, just outside of reality.
15. You Always Want More –
Once you find a good series, you’re in for life. Book 1… book 10… or even book 40… keep them coming.
DO YOU LIKE STARTING A SERIES THAT IS ALREADY COMPLETE, KNOWING YOU WON’T HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE TO COME OUT? YOU’RE IN LUCK, BOTH MY BLOOD ANGEL SERIES AND MY SECTOR C SERIES ARE AVAILABLE IN FULL! CHECK THEM OUT BELOW!
Nina Soden 