05/22/2026
Look what’s coming!
SEACT Starts Work On New Downtown Theatre Space
Dothan — Construction is now underway on Southeast Alabama Community Theatre’s satellite renovation project in downtown Dothan.
According to SEACT, the 7,000-square-foot building located at 251 S. Foster Street will be transformed into a dedicated theatre education and rehearsal facility aimed at expanding arts access and educational programming across the Wiregrass.
Plans for the renovated building include a 200-seat rehearsal hall that will also serve as a secondary performance venue. The project marks a major step in the organization’s long-range planning efforts and continued investment in downtown Dothan.
Executive Director Jennifer Doherty said, “This project represents years of planning, partnership, and community support. SEACT hosts more than 20,000 visits annually and every season introduces new and exciting programs like the Thespian Society for students (Troupe #11355) and the Respite Care partnership with Wiregrass Museum of Art and First United Methodist Church. This facility will expand opportunities for people of all ages to take part in and experience the arts.”
According to SEACT, the $3 million investment is part of a multi-year effort to develop independently operated theatre facilities capable of meeting the growing needs of the community. The organization will continue limited operations at the Cultural Arts Center, where it has served as a resident organization for nearly 25 years.
Officials said additional nearby properties on South Foster Street will also be used for rehearsals, administration and educational programming.
The new facility was designed by Gosselin Architecture and construction is being handled by Voak Construction. SEACT expects the facility to open by summer 2027.
According to SEACT, the project is supported in part through a $750,000 state appropriation facilitated by Paul Lee and the Wiregrass legislative delegation, along with support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and community donations.
SEACT hosts annual Main Stage and Education productions, after-school and summer programs, and a yearly youth theatre festival. The organization also provides low and no-cost performance opportunities and property loans to schools and nonprofit groups.
Photo Source: SEACT
