2/3/25 ISSUE – NORTH ALABAMA THEATRE HAPPENINGS

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
EVENTGROUPLOCATIONDATE
I love you, You’re Perfect… Now ChangeBank Street PlayersBanksy Event Venue2/6-2/8
Open To Suggestions: Valentine’s Day ShowPlumb Line EventsFantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre2/13
9 To 5 The MusicalThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL2/13-2/22
The Choir of ManBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall2/13-2/14
Brahms Violin ConcertoHuntsville Symphony OrchestraMark C. Smith Concert Hall2/21
& JulietBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall2/24-3/1
Jim Brickman & Huntsville Symphony OrchestraHuntsville Symphony OrchestraMark C. Smith Concert Hall3/7
Mrs. DoubtfireBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall3/27-3/29
Dreams in FlightHuntsville Symphony OrchestraMark C. Smith Concert Hall4/11
Cat on a Hot Tin RoofThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL4/17-4/26
Give Me JusticeValley ConsortMessiah Lutheran Church, Madison & Faith Presbyterian Church, Huntsville4/24-4/25
Video Games LiveHuntsville Symphony OrchestraMark C. Smith Concert Hall4/25
BoleroHuntsville Symphony OrchestraMark C. Smith Concert Hall5/2
Water for ElephantsBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall5/5-5/9
OklahomaThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL6/19-6/28
  • OTHER THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS / ARTS-RELATED INFORMATION
DETAILSGROUP/ETCLOCATIONDATE
Awaken – Audiobook ReleasedNina SodenAmazonNOW
Beginnings – Audiobook Just ReleasedNina SodenAmazonNOW
Revenge – Audiobook Just ReleasedNina SodenAmazonNOW
A Winter AffairIndependent Musical ProductionsTrilogy Hotel2/5
  • 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)

📧 ninasodenbooks@gmail.com  | 📞 256-520-9640


GIVEAWAY WINNER:

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

Click here to be entered for your chance to win two tickets to an upcoming production.


PRODUCTIONS:

Bank Street Players

Dates:

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

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

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


A brick house with a garage door

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Broadway Theatre League

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!

Run Time: 90 minutes No Intermission

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 6+

Tickets: $45-$80 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/the-choir-of-man/  or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

Date: Saturday, February 21st at 7:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Tickets: (Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Huntsville)

Added 12/23/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Dates:

  • February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 25, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 26, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • February 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • February 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • February 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$110 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/juliet/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

Date: Saturday, March 7th at 7:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Tickets: (Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Huntsville)

Added 12/23/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Dates:

  • March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • March 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 29, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • March 29, 2026 at 6:30 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$95 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/mrs-doubtfire/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

Date: Saturday, April 11th at 7:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Tickets: (Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Huntsville)

Added 12/23/2025   


The Whole Backstage

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

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

Date: Saturday, April 125th at 7:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Tickets: (Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Huntsville)

Added 12/23/2025


Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

Date: Saturday, May 2nd at 7:30PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Tickets: (Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Huntsville)

Added 12/23/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Date:

  • May 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 8, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • May 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • May 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • May 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • May 10, 2026 at 6:30 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$105 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/water-for-elephants/ or call 256-518-6155

Added 11/5/2025


The Whole Backstage

Date: June 19-28, 2026

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


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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!

ORDER YOUR AUDIO BOOK: https://amzn.to/4rh1gPq

ORDER YOUR AUDIO BOOK: https://amzn.to/4k2dCsn

ORDER YOUR AUDIO BOOK: https://amzn.to/4pZs99k


Independent Musical Productions (IMPHuntsville)

Date: February 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Location: Trilogy Hotel

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.

Parking: $10 Valet

Tickets: https://track.pstmrk.it/3s/imphuntsville.ludus.com/w8RA/3-XCAQ/AQ/0a079a8c-2a04-4060-868f-84a878c78ede/2/lBmGSgXgzs

Click here for more detailed information: A Winter Affair | IMP Site

Added 10/21/2025


SUBMISSIONS:

If you are part of an upcoming theater production or theatre-related event, I’d love to help you market it through the THEATRE HAPPENINGS weekly email newsletter. Please submit all theatre productions and theatre-related events through the new online THEATRE HAPPENINGS – SUBMISSION FORM. (Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdeFZsqfwGksQPse1V2pwZjK8h_M1LT8QjYRj6Ok3TxFveYlw/viewform?usp=header)

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. 

Nina Soden

256-520-9640


GIVEAWAY:

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 at  ninasodenbooks@gmail.com.


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A road with houses and trees

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Call me at 256-520-9640 for more information!


A Late New Year’s Writing Resolution

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.

Here’s to two books.

And here’s to a year of showing up.

— Nina


Still Writing, Still Dreaming

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.

Until then, thank you for being here.

— Nina


AUDIOBOOKS NOW AVAILABLE!


My Secret Life by Nina Soden

Most people think they know me.

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.

I’m an author.

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?”

Yes. And also… a writer.

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.


15 Signs You’re Definitely an Urban Fantasy Reader

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Again, nothing comes without consequences.

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!

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.

Once you find a good series, you’re in for life. Book 1… book 10… or even book 40… keep them coming.

THE BLOOD ANGEL SERIES BY NINA SODEN (AWAKEN, BEGINNINGS, REVENGE, AND PURSUIT)

THE BEAST WITHIN (IN THE SAME WORLD AS THE BLOOD ANGEL SERIES, BUT A STAND-ALONE NOVEL)

THE SECTOR C SERIES BY NINA SODEN (THE CHOSEN, THE HUNTED, AND THE BRIDGE)

Urban fantasy doesn’t just entertain—it invites you to question reality itself.


Why Dystopian Fiction Feels More Relevant Than Ever

Dystopian fiction has always mirrored society—but lately, it feels uncomfortably close to home. Readers aren’t drawn to dystopian worlds because they’re bleak. They’re drawn to them because they ask hard questions.

Dystopian stories explore:

The Dresden Files — Jim Butcher

  • How it explores the theme:
    Power is hierarchical and political: the White Council, vampire courts, fae queens. Control is maintained through rules, fear, and tradition.
  • Why it matters:
    Magic doesn’t equal freedom — power always comes with oversight and consequences.

Kate Daniels Series — Ilona Andrews

  • How it explores the theme:
    Power shifts between magic factions, shapeshifters, necromancers, and ancient beings.
  • Why it matters:
    Control isn’t static — it’s constantly contested, unstable, and violent.

The Iron Druid Chronicles — Kevin Hearne

  • How it explores the theme:
    Gods, immortals, and magical beings exert power over mortals in subtle and overt ways.
  • Why it matters:
    Power imbalance between the divine and human is a recurring moral tension.

American Gods — Neil Gaiman

  • How it explores the theme:
    Power comes from belief. Old gods struggle to maintain control in a changing world.
  • Why it matters:
    Control is psychological and cultural, not just physical.

the sector c series — Nina soden

  • How it explores the theme:
    Society is governed by a council of vampires and shapeshifters. Yet the world, and their power, begin to crumble around them.
  • Why it matters:
    In a world where control is everything, a pebble in the pond can change the world!

The Hollows Series — Kim Harrison

  • How it explores the theme:
    The supernatural community hides behind a carefully controlled public narrative.
  • Why it matters:
    Truth is curated to maintain public order — and fear.

Neverwhere — Neil Gaiman

  • How it explores the theme:
    London Above actively ignores London Below.
  • Why it matters:
    Reality is shaped by what society chooses not to see.

The Others — Anne Bishop

  • How it explores the theme:
    Humans believe they control the world, but the truth is far darker.
  • Why it matters:
    The illusion of dominance collapses when the real power is revealed.

Good Omens — Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman

  • How it explores the theme:
    Prophecy is misinterpreted, manipulated, and selectively believed.
  • Why it matters:
    Even divine truth can be distorted by bias and expectation.

The Blood Angel Series — NINA SODEN

  • How it explores the theme:
    Humans are blind to the reality that the world they live in is far from the world they believe to be truth.
  • Why it matters:
    Perception is reality, even when it was not intended.

Mercy Thompson Series — Patricia Briggs

  • How it explores the theme:
    Mercy survives in a world dominated by supernatural power structures.
  • Why it matters:
    Survival isn’t about strength — it’s about adaptability.

October Daye Series — Seanan McGuire

  • How it explores the theme:
    Faerie politics are lethal, and survival often requires sacrifice.
  • Why it matters:
    The cost of survival is emotional as well as physical.

The Mortal Instruments — Cassandra Clare

  • How it explores the theme:
    Teen characters face life-or-death stakes while navigating rigid magical law.
  • Why it matters:
    Survival requires questioning authority — not obeying it.

The Beast within — Nina Soden

  • How it explores the theme:
    Characters face unusual situations forcing them to make tough decisions under extreme pressure.
  • Why it matters:
    Survival by following the natural, or unnatural, instincts within ourselves.

The Magicians — Lev Grossman

  • How it explores the theme:
    Magic doesn’t protect characters from trauma or failure.
  • Why it matters:
    Survival includes enduring disappointment and disillusionment.

The Others — Anne Bishop

  • How it explores the theme:
    Humanity is examined from an outside perspective.
  • Why it matters:
    Being human isn’t about dominance — it’s about empathy.

The Sandman — Neil Gaiman

  • How it explores the theme:
    Mortality, dreams, and meaning define humanity.
  • Why it matters:
    Human fragility is portrayed as a strength, not a weakness.

Rivers of London — Ben Aaronovitch

  • How it explores the theme:
    A rational protagonist navigates an irrational world.
  • Why it matters:
    Humanity lies in curiosity, ethics, and restraint.

The Golem and the Jinni — Helene Wecker

  • How it explores the theme:
    Two non-human beings explore identity, freedom, and belonging.
  • Why it matters:
    Humanity is defined by choice, not origin.

These stories allow readers to safely examine fear, resistance, and resilience.

In dystopian fiction, ordinary people become heroes not because they’re powerful—but because they refuse to stop caring.

That’s why dystopian stories will always endure!


Happy Holidays to the Storytellers and Story Lovers

There’s something about the holiday season that feels like a book you return to year after year.

The familiar opening lines. The comforting setting. The quiet moments that linger long after the last page.

As the year comes to a close, I wanted to pause and say thank you—and Happy Holidays—to every author I’ve had the honor of featuring here, and to every reader who has spent even a few minutes of their time wandering through my posts (or even better, through the pages of my novels).

If you’re reading this, you’re part of a community that believes in stories. You’re part of MY community.

And that matters. It matters to me.

Books Are the Gifts That Never Stop Giving

Books have always been a special kind of gift. They don’t sparkle under the tree, but they glow in other ways:

They offer escape when the world feels heavy.
They provide comfort when words are hard to find.
They challenge us, soften us, and sometimes even change us.

This time of year, stories feel especially powerful. We read by twinkling lights. We recommend favorite novels to friends. We tuck books into stockings, hoping the right story finds the right person at the right time.

Stories remind us that even in dark chapters, hope still exists.

And that’s a very special kind of magic.

To the Authors Who Shared Their Stories Here

To every author who trusted me with their work, their process, their vulnerability, and their voice—thank you.

Writing is brave. Sharing that writing is even braver.

Behind every book is a person who wrestled with doubt, chased inspiration at odd hours, and kept going even when the path felt uncertain. Trust me, I know! Featuring your stories on this site has been one of the greatest joys of my year, and I’m endlessly grateful for the chance to spotlight your creativity.

Your words matter. Your stories matter. And I can’t wait to see where the next chapter takes you.

To the Readers Who Keep Showing Up

And to the readers—those who comment, share, recommend, and quietly return—thank you for being here.

Readers are the heartbeat of storytelling. Without you, stories are just words on a page. With you, they become worlds, emotions, and memories.

Whether you found this site through a favorite genre, an author interview, or a single late-night scroll, I’m grateful you stayed.

May your holidays be filled with stories that make you feel understood, inspired, and a little less alone.

Turning the Page on a New Year

As we step into a brand-new year, I hope it brings:

  • More time to read
  • More courage to write
  • More stories that surprise us
  • And more moments of quiet joy with a good book in hand

The best stories are never really finished—they simply invite us to keep reading.

So here’s to fresh chapters, new ideas, and the magic that only stories can create.

From my heart (and my bookshelf) to yours—

Happy Holidays and happy reading.

Nina Soden


Grateful for Every Chapter

This morning, as the aroma of Thanksgiving fills kitchens across the country and families begin to gather, I’m taking a quiet moment to reflect on all that I’m thankful for.

Gratitude, for me, isn’t just about the grand gestures or milestone moments — it’s about the small, beautiful details that make up a life. The laughter around the dinner table. The quiet cup of coffee before the day begins. The people who fill my heart and the stories that fill my soul.

I’m thankful for my family — the love that grounds me, the laughter that brightens each day, and the unwavering support that makes every dream feel possible. Being a wife and a mom are my greatest accomplishments, and the love we share is my most cherished story. I’m also deeply grateful for the close bond I have with my parents and my sister and her family; their constant love and presence (even from a distance) bring joy to my life that I never take for granted. And having my in-laws nearby — with their open doors, warm hearts, and welcoming home — reminds me every day how lucky I am to belong to such a loving family circle.

I’m thankful for art — for the lifelong gift of creativity. From drawing and painting as a child to finding my voice in theatre, film, and writing, art has always been the way I connect to the world. It’s my reminder that imagination, expression, and storytelling are powerful forces — they heal, they inspire, and they connect us in ways words alone sometimes can’t.

And I’m thankful for you — my readers, friends, and supporters. Each message, each shared moment, each connection reminds me why I write. You’ve helped turn my passion into purpose, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

I’m also deeply thankful for my real estate career — a path that’s given me the chance to serve, guide, and connect with so many incredible people. My clients, colleagues, and referral partners have trusted me with one of the most important chapters of their lives — finding a home or letting one go — and that trust means everything. Each relationship, each story, and each closing reminds me that real estate isn’t just about houses; it’s about people, families, and the places where their next chapter begins.

So today, as we gather around our tables — whether surrounded by family, friends, or even just the quiet hum of gratitude — I hope we all take a moment to pause and truly see the blessings in front of us.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the plates are cleared.

From my heart to yours — Happy Thanksgiving. 🧡

With love and gratitude,
Nina Soden
Author | Dreamer | Storyteller


Turning 50: A Celebration of Art, Family, and Stories – PLUS A GIVEAWAY!

November 26th marks a big milestone for me — my 50th birthday. I’ll admit, that number has been sitting with me in a strange way. There’s something about it that feels both heavy and profound. But instead of focusing on the number, I want to celebrate the journey that brought me here — and the art, family, and community that have shaped me along the way.

I’ve always been an artist. As a kid, I filled sketchbooks with drawings and painted anything I could get my hands on. Creativity was my language — the way I understood and expressed the world around me. In college, I discovered the magic of theatre and film, and that love carried me all the way to California after graduation. I chased stories on stage and on camera, learning what it meant to bring characters to life.

When my husband and I moved to Alabama in 2004, the curtain didn’t fall — it simply shifted. I found a vibrant theatre community here, both on and off the stage. And when film opportunities weren’t as accessible, writing became my new creative outlet. It started as a whisper — a need to tell stories — and grew into a lifelong passion.

Since publishing my first novel in 2012, I’ve written worlds born from imagination, heart, and a deep love for storytelling. Each book has been a reflection of my creativity — as an artist, as a dreamer, as a human being trying to make sense of the world. But none of it would have been possible without my family. Their love, patience, and unwavering support have carried me through every chapter. Being a wife and a mom are my greatest accomplishments — everything else, every creative endeavor, is built on that foundation of love.

And then, of course, there’s you — my readers. Your encouragement, your messages, your shared excitement about my books… my stories mean more to me than you could ever know. You’ve helped turn my art into something living, something shared.

So, to celebrate this milestone birthday and to give back a little of the joy you’ve given me, I’m hosting a Birthday Giveaway! 🎁

Enter to win a signed copy of one of my books (U.S. entries only)!

Here’s how to enter:

  1. Leave a comment below — tell me your favorite birthday memory, your favorite book of mine, or simply say hello.
  2. Fill out the short entry form (linked below) so I can contact the winner.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

The giveaway will be open through November 30th, and I’ll announce the winner the first week of December.

As I step into this new decade, I’m choosing gratitude — for art, for stories, for family, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile. Thank you for being part of my creative journey. Here’s to the next chapter — one filled with courage, curiosity, and a whole lot of love. 💜

With gratitude,
Nina Soden
Author | Dreamer | Storyteller


11/25/25 ISSUE – NORTH ALABAMA THEATRE HAPPENINGS

  • A LITTLE ABOUT ME ~ It’s My Birthday… Let’s Celebrate!
  • GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCED
  • PRODUCTIONS
EVENTGROUPLOCATIONDATE
The Trial of the RookEvil Cheez ProductionsShenanigans Comedy Theatre (Black Box)11/28 – 11/29
Mark Twain Tonight!Broadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall12/5-12/6
Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryDream Weavers Children’s TheatreThe Princess Theatre12/5-12/7
The Trial of the RookEvil Cheez ProductionsJackson House in Moulton12/12-12/13
ShuckedBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall12/16-12/21
HadestownBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall1/9-1/11
The Sound of MusicBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall1/27-2/1
9 To 5 The MusicalThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL2/13-2/22
The Choir of ManBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall2/13-2/14
& JulietBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall2/24-3/1
Mrs. DoubtfireBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall3/27-3/29
Cat on a Hot Tin RoofThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL4/17-4/26
Water for ElephantsBroadway Theatre LeagueMark C. Smith Concert Hall5/5-5/9
OklahomaThe Whole BackstageThe Whole Backstage, Guntersville, AL6/19-6/28
  • THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS
EVENTGROUPDETAILSDATES
AuditionsThe Christmas CarolersAuditions: the Christmas CarolersAnytime
WorkshopValley Arts and Entertainment, LLCPerformance Learning Resource Workshop12/16
AuditionsTheatre HuntsvilleAuditions: 17761/10 & 1/11/2026
  • SUBMISSION REQUESTS
  • MONTHLY GIVEAWAY DETAILS

ABOUT ME:

It’s My Birthday… Let’s Celebrate With a Giveaway!

This week’s newsletter arrives on a day that feels bigger than most — the eve of my 50th birthday. Let’s call it my birthday dress rehearsal. I’ve been sitting with that number for a while now, turning it over like a script I’ve read a hundred times, trying to hear what it’s really saying. Fifty. It’s a milestone that carries both the ache of time passing and the beauty of everything earned along the way. I’ve found myself looking back through the acts of my life — the childhood dreams, the creative sparks, the stages and stories and people who shaped me. And now here I am, stepping into a new act with equal parts courage, nostalgia, and gratitude. If birthdays are like standing in the wings before the curtain rises, this one feels like a deep breath before a powerful scene change.

And because a milestone year deserves a meaningful moment, I want to celebrate by giving something truly from my heart, and 201 people can win. One person will receive a signed copy of Awaken, the very first novel I ever published and the beginning of my Blood Angel Series. As a bonus, 200 additional people will receive a FREE downloadable eBook version of Awaken. That book was my brave step into a world I had only dreamed of — my opening night as an author — and sharing it feels like the perfect way to honor this birthday. To enter the giveaway, simply fill out the entry form by clicking this link.

ENTER GIVEAWAY USING THIS LINK!

I would love it if you would share a theatre memory that’s stayed with you, inspired you, or helped shape your own story. Thank you for being part of this journey with me — through every act, every transition, and every moment still waiting in the wings.

Nina Soden (Associate Broker/Realtor, The Soden Team at LEGEND REALTY)

📧 ninasodenbooks@gmail.com  | 📞 256-520-9640


GIVEAWAY WINNER:

AND THE WINNER IS… WHY NOT YOU?!

Check out the upcoming giveaways below. The next winner will be announced on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. It could be you!

UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS:

Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Shucked            Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: DECEMBER 2, 2025
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Hadestown       Ticket Date/Time: Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: DECEMBER 30, 2025
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: The Sound of Music     Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: JANUARY 13, 2025  
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: The Choir of Man          Ticket Date/Time: Friday, February 13, 2026 at 7:30 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: FEBRUARY 3, 2025
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: & Juliet  Ticket Date/Time: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: FEBRUARY 10, 2025
Sponsor: Broadway Theatre League Production: Mrs. Doubtfire Ticket Date/Time: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM – Orchestra 3 WINNER ANNOUNCED: MARCH 17, 2025
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, 2025

Click here to be entered for your chance to win two tickets to an upcoming production.


PRODUCTIONS:

Evil Cheez Productions

The Trial of The Rook

Dates:

  • Friday, November 28th at 7:30 PM
  • Saturday, November 29th at 2:30 PM
  • Saturday, November 29th at 7:30 PM

Performed at: The Black Box at Shenanigans Comedy Theatre (2650 Leeman Ferry Rd, Huntsville AL 35805)

Synopsis: Christmas, 1940. As Christmas carols and the tinkling of bells waft through the air, The Rook, the world’s most infamous master criminal, has been apprehended and is standing trial for murder! His real name has been revealed – Judas Ackery – and his conviction by year’s end seems a certainty. While this would appear to be a cause for public celebration to the public at large, there are those who remain concerned that perhaps this, too, is all some nefarious scheme on the part of The Rook.

Evil Cheez Productions presents their most popular character in one of their most well received productions – THE TRIAL OF THE ROOK. What better way to usher in the holidays than a murder mystery set at Christmas time. Thrilling, chilling, poignant, and loads of fun for those who crave a little something unusual during the holidays. 

Tickets: ONLY $15 www.huntsvillelaughs.com 

Added 10/13/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Mark Twain Tonight!

Dates:

  • December 5, 2025 at 7:30 PM
  • December 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Synopsis: RICHARD THOMAS IN MARK TWAIN TONIGHT!

By Hal Holbrook

Emmy-Award® winning Actor RICHARD THOMAS brings to life “the nation’s one true comic genius” (The New York Times) in MARK TWAIN TONIGHT!!, written and originally performed by Hal Holbrook. Join the millions who have cheered for the legendary one-man show, bursting with Twain’s “uproariously funny” and “pungently wise” (Time Magazine) humor.

Most recently seen on Broadway in Our Town, on tour as Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird, on Netflix’s Ozark, and beloved to generations as John-Boy Walton, RICHARD THOMAS is the first and only actor authorized to perform the play since the original.

Run Time: 1 hours 30 minutes Includes Intermission

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 10+

Tickets: $45-$95 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/mark-twain-tonight/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Dream Weavers Children’s Theatre

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Dates:

  • December 5, 2025 at 7:00 PM
  • December 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM
  • December 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM

Performed at: The Princess Theatre (112 2nd Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601)

Synopsis: The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory… but only to a lucky few. Young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a life changing journey through Wonka’s world of pure imagination including chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels and the great glass elevator, all to be revealed by Wonka’s army of curious Oompa-Loompas. Get your golden ticket now to this delicious musical!

Tickets: $18 (students, seniors, and veterans) $20 (adults) https://ci.ovationtix.com/36147/production/1255729

Added 11/13/2025


Evil Cheez Productions

The Trial of The Rook

Dates:

  • Friday, December 12th at 7:30 PM
  • Saturday, December 13th at 2:30 PM
  • Saturday, December 13th at 7:30 PM

Performed at: The Historic Jackson House (119 College St., Moulton, AL 35650)

Synopsis: Christmas, 1940. As Christmas carols and the tinkling of bells waft through the air, The Rook, the world’s most infamous master criminal, has been apprehended and is standing trial for murder! His real name has been revealed – Judas Ackery – and his conviction by year’s end seems a certainty. While this would appear to be a cause for public celebration to the public at large, there are those who remain concerned that perhaps this, too, is all some nefarious scheme on the part of The Rook.

Evil Cheez Productions presents their most popular character in one of their most well received productions – THE TRIAL OF THE ROOK. What better way to usher in the holidays than a murder mystery set at Christmas time. Thrilling, chilling, poignant, and loads of fun for those who crave a little something unusual during the holidays. 

Tickets: ONLY $15 Call: 256-616-8189 or Venmo JACKSONHOUSE-FOUNDATION

Added 10/13/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Shucked

Dates:

  • December 16, 2025 at 7:00 PM
  • December 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM
  • December 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM
  • December 19, 2025 at 7:30 PM
  • December 20, 2025 at 1:00 PM
  • December 20, 2025 at 7:30 PM
  • December 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM
  • December 21, 2025 at 7:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Synopsis: SHUCKED is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”), and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.

 Run Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes including intermission.

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 10+. SHUCKED contains adult themes, moments of adult language and a harvest of corny innuendo.

Tickets: $45-$105 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/shucked/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025

 


Broadway Theatre League

Hadestown

Dates:

  • January 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • January 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • January 10, 2026 at 7:30PM
  • January 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • January 11, 2026 at 6:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Synopsis: HADESTOWN

COME SEE HOW THE WORLD COULD BE.

Welcome to HADESTOWN, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and original director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today… and always.

HADESTOWN intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. Mitchell’s beguiling melodies and Chavkin’s poetic imagination pit industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love. Performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers, HADESTOWN is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go.

REASONS TO SEE IT

Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album.

From celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and original director Rachel Chavkin.

Haunting and hopeful, a love story for the ages.

An unforgettable story and score, beautifully staged and performed.

Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Includes Intermission

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$95 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/hadestown/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Broadway Theatre League

The Sound of Music

Dates:

  • January 27, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • January 28, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • January 29, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • January 30, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • January 31, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • January 31, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • February 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • February 1, 2026 at 6:30 PM

Performed at: Mark C. Smith Concert Hall (700 Monroe St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801)

Synopsis: THE SOUND OF MUSIC

For 65 years, THE SOUND OF MUSIC has been one of our “favorite things.” With its timeless story and irresistibly charming score, this Rodgers & Hammerstein classic isn’t just meant to be enjoyed – it’s meant to be shared. Now, a critically acclaimed North American tour brings the cherished musical to stages across the country to teach a new generation to sing.

Directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this vibrant and romantic tale of Maria and the von Trapp family will captivate audiences with its universal themes of love, resilience and the power of music.

Featuring beloved songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and “Edelweiss,” THE SOUND OF MUSIC is the iconic tale of a spirited nun who chooses not to live behind closed doors – and, by following her heart, learns to climb every mountain.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC features music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, and book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, suggested by The Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta Trapp. 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the Oscar®-winning film, which continues to be one of the most successful movie musicals of all time.

Reason to See It

Experience THE SOUND OF MUSIC live on stage for the first time or introduce a new generation to the beloved story of Maria and the von Trapp family, with “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss” and more.

Single Tickets go on sale September 18, 2025!

 Run Time: 2 Hours 45 Minutes Includes Intermission

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$105 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/the-sound-of-music/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


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

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AI-generated content may be incorrect.8800 Belle Mor Drive Madison, AL 35757Custom-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.
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AI-generated content may be incorrect.  6035 Thorntons Way Cir. Huntsville, AL 35810Better Than New & Move-In Ready! The Everett Plan is a stunning 1-story design with 2,136 SQFT of comfort & style. This thoughtfully maintained home features 4 spacious bedrooms & 3 full bathrooms, including a luxurious owner’s suite w/a relaxing garden tub & separate shower. The ideal blend of sophistication, space, & practicality. You’ll love the LVP flooring that combines durability w/timeless appeal, & the 9-foot ceilings that create a bright, open feel throughout. The chef-inspired kitchen showcases granite countertops, ample cabinetry, & an open-concept layout perfect for entertaining & everyday living. A covered back patio with amazing views is a welcome oasis.

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!

Run Time: 90 minutes No Intermission

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 6+

Tickets: $45-$80 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/the-choir-of-man/  or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Broadway Theatre League

& Juliet

Dates:

  • February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 25, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 26, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • February 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • February 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • February 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • February 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$110 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/juliet/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


Broadway Theatre League

Mrs. Doubtfire

Dates:

  • March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • March 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • March 29, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • March 29, 2026 at 6:30 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$95 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/mrs-doubtfire/ or call 256-518-6155)

Added 11/5/2025


The Whole Backstage

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Dates: 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


Broadway Theatre League

Water for Elephants

Dates:

  • May 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM
  • May 8, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • May 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • May 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM
  • May 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • May 10, 2026 at 6:30 PM

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

Age recommendation: Recommended for ages 8+

Tickets: $45-$105 (https://broadwaytheatreleague.org/show/water-for-elephants/ or call 256-518-6155

Added 11/5/2025


The Whole Backstage

Oklahoma

Dates: June 19-28, 2026

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


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3303 McDow Ave. NW. Huntsville, AL 35816Just 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.
A house with a driveway and grass

AI-generated content may be incorrect.408 Arcanum Lane New Market, AL 35761Welcome to this gorgeous 5 bed, 5 bath home with over 3,800 sq ft of modern living. The open layout features a gourmet kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, gas cooktop, and a large island. The spacious living room includes a cozy fireplace, perfect for entertaining. The master suite offers a sitting area, fireplace, soaking tub, separate shower, and walk-in closet. The large, fully sodded backyard includes a covered patio and outdoor fireplace for year-round enjoyment. Convenient to top-rated schools, parks, and shopping. This one is a must-see!

Call me at 256-520-9640 to schedule a showing.


THEATRE-RELATED EVENTS:

The Christmas Carolers

Auditions: The Christmas Carolers

Dates: Anytime

Location: https://www.thechristmascarolers.com/caroler-apply

Synopsis: The Christmas Caroler, America’s premier nationwide holiday entertainment company, founded in 1996, is opening a group in Huntsville, Alabama. If you love singing and spreading Christmas cheer and are looking for a seasonal gig that’s joyful and rewarding, look no further! 

 Why Join Us?
– Get paid well to do what you love: SING!
– Flexible hours and commitment
– Be part of a merry and vibrant community

For more info…   https://www.thechristmascarolers.com  or  huntsville@thechristmascarolers.com

🎄 Let’s make this season magical! 🎄

Added 10/13/2025


Valley Arts and Entertainment, Inc

Performance Learning Resource Workshop

Dates: December 16, 2025  (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Location: Gigaparts Event Center (6123 University Drive)

Synopsis: Performance Music. Join us for an exciting day to participate in women in jazz focused workshop, chance to sing or play an instrument and grab lunch as well. The agenda for emerging artists includes improvision, the art of ensemble playing, building a career, meet and Greet our guest, bring your voice.

Price: $10

Order Your Tickets Here!

Added 11/4/2025


Theatre Huntsville

Auditions: 1776

Dates: January 10th and 11th at 6pm

Location: Theatre Huntsville Scene Shop & Rehearsal Space (500 Plummer Road)

Synopsis: Theatre Huntsville is holding open auditions for the Tony Award-winning musical 1776 on January 10–11, 2026.

This revolutionary musical brings the founding fathers to life with powerful songs, sharp dialogue, and a fresh perspective on American history.

We’re looking for local singers, actors, and performers of all backgrounds to join our cast.

If you’re interested in auditioning for a musical in Huntsville, Alabama, don’t miss your chance to be part of this bold and timely production with one of the city’s premier community theatres.

Added 08/11/2025


SUBMISSIONS:

If you are part of an upcoming theater production or theatre-related event, I’d love to help you market it through the THEATRE HAPPENINGS weekly email newsletter. Please submit all theatre productions and theatre-related events through the new online THEATRE HAPPENINGS – SUBMISSION FORM. (Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdeFZsqfwGksQPse1V2pwZjK8h_M1LT8QjYRj6Ok3TxFveYlw/viewform?usp=header)

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. 

Nina Soden

256-520-9640


GIVEAWAY:

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 at ninasodenbooks@gmail.com.



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