New play ‘Growing Up with Atticus’ to debut at Virginia Samford Theatre

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Statue dedicated to To Kill A Mockingbird in Monroeville (The Bama Buzz)

Two women closely connected to the original “To Kill A Mockingbird” film have created a new experience set to debut later this year.

Mary Badham, who played Scout Finch in the movie, and Cecilia Peck, who is the daughter of Gregory Peck who portrayed Atticus Finch, have teamed up to create “Growing Up with Atticus.”

The experience will debut Sep. 17-27 at the Virginia Samford Theatre in Birmingham.

Mary Badham + Cecilia Peck

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Just a few years separate Mary Badham + Cecilia Peck in age but their biggest connection is through Gregory Peck, the man who won an Oscar for his role as Atticus Finch in the 1964 film “To Kill A Mockingbird.”

“Through personal stories, film clips, and live conversation, they reflect on the man behind the role and the values that continue to resonate across generations. Both nostalgic and deeply moving, this event celebrates storytelling, legacy, and the enduring power of empathy.”

Virginia Samford Theatre

Badham, who was born in Birmingham, was nominated for her performance as Jean Louise “Scout” Finch. At the time, she was the youngest nominee ever for Best Supporting Actress.

While Badham played Gregory Peck’s daughter on screen, his real daughter Cecilia was just 5 years old. Cecilia Peck has experience as an actor, producer and director.

Virginia Samford Theatre

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The Virginia Samford Theatre is celebrating its 100th year in operation with some exciting upcoming productions and a brand new designation on the National Register of Historic Places. (Virginia Samford Theatre)

The historic Birmingham venue celebrated its centennial kickoff April 30 by unveiling its newly minted plaque from the National Register of Historic Places.

The theater used the celebration to highlight an iconic season that includes the new play exploring the legacy of “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones made a guest appearance to announce “Growing Up with Atticus,” and he touched on why VST matters so much to Birmingham.

“For 100 years, Virginia Samford Theatre has served as a place where stories challenge us and invite us to see the world more clearly. Theater was founded on the belief that art should serve the public good, and that commitment to socially minded storytelling continues today.”

Sen. Doug Jones

Caleb Turrentine
Caleb Turrentine
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