The annual Alabama Shakespeare Festival, held in Montgomery, is one of the largest in the world.

Courtesy of Porfirio Solorzano/Alabama Tourism Department

Alabama - Music and Performing Arts

By Smithsonian.com
Smithsonian.com, November 08, 2007

Alabama certainly has a swing in its step. The state's musical history is second to none, and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Tuscumbia pays tribute to all those who made their mark in blues, jazz, bluegrass, country and rock 'n' roll. Memorabilia from legends like Wilson Pickett, Nat King Cole and Hank Williams can all be found there.

For theatergoers, the sixth largest Shakespeare festival in the world is sure to appeal. Originally a summer theater event in Montgomery, the ASF now resides in the city year- round, putting on plays and workshops in its 250-acre park.