Alabama Stage and Screen Hall of Fame facts for kids
The Alabama Stage and Screen Hall of Fame started in 1998. Its goal is to celebrate people from Alabama who have done amazing things in movies, TV shows, or plays. Theatre Tuscaloosa and Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama work together to support this special group.
First Stars Honored
The Hall of Fame welcomed its first group of stars in April 1999. This first class included the famous actress Tallulah Bankhead. Also honored was actress and author Fannie Flagg. Mr. and Mrs. Winton M. Blount were also inducted. They were honored for giving a lot of money to help build a new home for the Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
In 2000, more talented people joined the Hall of Fame. Actress Lois Wilson was honored. She acted in over 130 movies from 1917 to 1965. She also appeared on Broadway and television. Polly Holliday was inducted, known for playing "Flo" on the TV show Alice. She had a long career in films and on stage. Director John Badham was also honored. His movie Saturday Night Fever was very popular. Actress and singer Nell Carter joined the Hall of Fame. She won a Tony Award for her role in the musical Ain't Misbehavin'.
More Amazing Inductees
Many other talented Alabamians have been honored over the years. Here are some of them:
- In 2006, actor Jim Nabors was inducted.
- In 2004, actress and comedian Brett Butler joined. Actor Johnny Mack Brown was also honored.
- In 2003, director and producer Tom Cherones was inducted. Singer and actor Nat King Cole also joined.
- In 2002, actor George "Goober" Lindsey was honored. Actor Dean Jones and composer Hugh Martin were also inducted.
- In 2001, author Truman Capote joined the Hall of Fame. Singer and actress Rebecca Luker was also honored. The famous film To Kill a Mockingbird was also recognized.
Each year, a new group of inductees is celebrated. This happens at a special event called an annual gala. Dancers and singers from Theatre Tuscaloosa perform at this event. They are joined by the Steve Sample Orchestra. The music arrangements are created by Steve Sample, Sr and Ray Reach.
