Frequently Asked Questions

Location and Hours

Where are you located?

Birmingham Festival Theatre is at 1901 1/2 11th Ave. S., above Golden Temple. Walk up the hill and you will see our gated entrance.

Where should I park?

There is a parking deck within walking distance and street parking is free after 5:00pm and weekends. View more parking options.

Are you accessible via public transit?

BFT is within walking distance of The Dart. Learn more information about The Dart.

What are your box office hours?

Our box office is open one hour before curtain.
Evening performances: 6:30-7:30pm
Matinee performances: 1:30-2:30pm

Tickets

How can I save money on tickets?

We offer deals to meet any budget! View our ticket specials.

Can I exchange my tickets?

We offer unlimited exchanges at no additional fee provided you notify us before the show starts. View exchange policy.

Are shows ever cancelled due to inclement weather?

We don't cancel performances due to weather except in the most severe of conditions. Unless otherwise noted here on our website, the show will go on. If conditions aren't safe for you to travel to the theater, please contact us prior to your scheduled performance and we'll be glad to work with you on finding the best possible solution. In the unlikely event that performances are cancelled because of the weather, rest assured that we will honor the value of your ticket to a future performance. Please know that email and phone wait times are exceptionally long during inclement weather events, we will be in touch as soon as possible.
Learn more.

At the Show

When are shows?

Shows run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Check the production calendar to see whats on the stage.

What happens if I’m late?

Our house manager will make every effort to seat your party, if possible, but late seating is not guaranteed, nor are your reserved seats guaranteed if you are seated late. Please arrive early.

Do you serve food and drinks?

We have a donation based concessions bar for our patrons. Learn more.

Dress Code?

Nope!

Audience behavior?

We’re in this room together — and it belongs to all of us!
We’re thrilled to have you at our productions, and we invite you to experience the plays out loud! There is no right or wrong way to respond to theater. Your energy feeds the performers! You are welcome to cheer, chuckle, laugh out loud, shed tears, gasp, or exclaim. Or simply lean back and soak it in. Live theater is a uniquely communal experience. We hope you’ll join us in making this space feel welcoming for all in attendance. Rather than shushing your neighbors, say hello and allow them to experience the show in their own way. THANK YOU for creating community with us at Birmingham Festival Theatre. If you love the show, please share with your friends. If there’s something we can do to improve your experience, please check in with a baord member while you’re at the theater, or email us at reviews@bftonline.org.

Did you know? Research has indicated that when people come together to experience theater, their heartbeats can synchronize. How amazing is that? May our hearts align for each performance!

Can I take a photo of the show?

Have at it until the lights dim in the theater and the show gets underway. If you post a photo before or after the show on social media, please credit our amazing designers.

Are there post-show Q&As?

Yes! There are question and answer sessions with the cast and crew after the second Friday of a show run!

What are your COVID-19 Safety Procedures?

Recently, we have taken a survey of both our board members and our patrons regarding safety procedures for COVID-19. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has been made into a controversial topic over the past two years. When BFT decided to reopen our doors, we knew there would be some whiplash to come out of it no matter what decisions were made. Which is why extended the discussion out of the board meeting by asking you, our patrons, what would make you all feel the most comfortable. We analyzed, and discussed the results of what everyone had to say. The decisions we made were aligned with the vast majorities responses. Of course, we are monitoring the entire situation and recognize these are subject to change during any unforeseen events and evolutions.

Masks will be recommended for all volunteer staff and patrons.
Opening night receptions will be suspended for this season.
Increased availability of hand sanitizing stations.
General seating in order for patrons to distance.
Two ushers for each performance to assist in helping patrons spread out.
Limited houses in order for patrons to distance.
Adding Venmo QR code for touchless donations at our concession stand
Adding a digital program as an option for a contactless experience.

As previously stated, we will continue to monitor the situation and revaluate as needed. Hopefully, with the decline of the Delta valiant there will not be any new surprises.

Other Stuff

Can I rent Birmingham Festival Theatre?

You sure can! Check out our rentals page for more details.