I sat down with Scott Wilkinson and Phillia “Lia” Prior about the thriving theater scene at Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Theater 1548. We talk about the Sister Act production, rebranding efforts at DUMC, and how these local arts are shaping our community. Get your tickets now! The show runs October 3rd-6th and you can find out more at dunwoodyumc.org/theatre-1548
On this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, Matt Weber brings on Scott Wilkinson and Phillia “Lia” Prior, two influential figures in Dunwoody’s local theater scene, to share their insights on the vibrant productions happening at Theater 1548. This episode is brought to you by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics. Dive into Dunwoody’s arts and culture as we explore how these two individuals are making an impact on the community. Whether you’re considering moving to Dunwoody or currently living in Dunwoody, the local arts scene is a hidden gem worth discovering.
The History and Evolution of Theater 1548
Theater 1548, formerly known for its connection to Dunwoody United Methodist Church, has rebranded and expanded under the direction of Scott Wilkinson. The group has been performing for over 20 years, but during COVID-19, they faced setbacks. As Scott shared, their previous director retired, and the theater had to shift focus. When Scott took over, his vision was clear: to grow the theater into a more professional, community-centered platform.
Theater 1548 isn’t just a local church production anymore; it’s a Dunwoody staple. The rebranding represents their commitment to high-quality performances. By bringing in professional talents like Lia Prior, the theater aims to elevate its productions. According to Scott, “We’re still a ministry of Dunwoody United Methodist, but we wanted to be held to a higher standard.”
If you’re moving to Dunwoody, be sure to explore the cultural scene, as Theater 1548 is making waves with shows that draw attendees from across the region.
Sister Act: A Community Favorite
The upcoming performance of Sister Act at Theater 1548 promises to be a showstopper. For many Dunwoody residents, the musical holds a special place in their hearts. Lia Prior stars as Dolores, the lead role, in a performance that’s sure to captivate the audience. Lia shares how she first auditioned for the same role at a different theater but didn’t land the part. “My mom pushed me to audition again for Theater 1548, and it was meant to be. I knew I was supposed to be part of this community,” she says.
Scott, who serves as the assistant director, highlights the power of music in bringing people together. “This show is about two worlds coming together through music. It’s a beautiful story,” he shares. The Sister Act soundtrack is also a big draw for the audience, making it a must-see for those living in Dunwoody and beyond.
How Theater 1548 Impacts Dunwoody’s Community
For over two decades, Theater 1548 has brought joy and connection to Dunwoody’s residents. Scott and Lia both spoke about how the theater serves as a gateway to the community, not just for church members but for everyone in Dunwoody and even greater Atlanta. “More than half of the audience members are not from the church,” Scott notes. The productions provide a space where people can come together, celebrate the arts, and engage with their neighbors in a meaningful way.
If you’re living in Dunwoody or thinking about moving to Dunwoody, supporting local theater is a great way to immerse yourself in the community. From volunteers to professional actors, the productions offer a place for everyone to participate.
Lia’s Journey from Audience Member to Star of the Show
Lia’s connection to Dunwoody goes back to her school days, attending High Point and Riverwood before becoming a performer at Theater 1548. She talks about the emotional and personal journey of getting cast in Sister Act. “It felt like everything came full circle,” she recalls. Lia’s story is a testament to the opportunities available in Dunwoody for those willing to engage with the community.
Her involvement in other local productions, like her upcoming dance show In Her Feelings at the Sewell Mill Cultural Arts Center, highlights the range of talent in Dunwoody’s arts scene. With theater, dance, and music programs thriving in the area, Lia’s story shows how Dunwoody is a hub for performing arts.
The Role of Volunteers in Dunwoody’s Events
Volunteering is the lifeblood of many community events in Dunwoody, including the Fourth of July Parade, which Scott Wilkinson also helps organize. The parade is one of the largest events in Dunwoody, attracting thousands of people each year. As Scott shared, the event has grown so popular that parking is becoming a challenge. “We need more volunteers,” Scott emphasizes, inviting anyone in the Dunwoody area to get involved.
Whether it’s helping out with the parade or contributing to a theater production, volunteering in Dunwoody offers residents a unique way to become part of the community fabric. For those new to Dunwoody, this is a great way to meet people and make connections.
Upcoming Shows and How to Get Tickets
Theater 1548 has an exciting lineup of shows planned for the season. The Sister Act performances are scheduled for October 4th, 5th, and 6th, with tickets available online at DunwoodyUMC.org. Scott encourages everyone to attend: “You won’t want to miss it. This show is going to be amazing.”
In addition to Sister Act, Lia is also preparing for her dance production In Her Feelings at the Sewell Mill Cultural Arts Center in October. The production takes a deep dive into the emotional experiences of women and how they navigate their feelings through dance.
Whether you’re living in Dunwoody or considering moving to Dunwoody, these productions showcase the depth of talent and opportunity within the community. The arts scene here is vibrant, with something for everyone.
How Theater Builds Confidence and Connections
Scott and Lia also touched on the broader benefits of participating in theater. For many, stepping on stage is a daunting experience, but the rewards are immense. Lia talks about how performing helped her build confidence, a skill that’s crucial in life. “I didn’t really have confidence in myself until I started performing,” she shares.
Scott adds that public speaking and performance skills are invaluable in everyday life. “Being comfortable in front of people makes all the difference,” he says. For those living in Dunwoody, getting involved in local theater can be a transformative experience, whether you’re on stage or behind the scenes.
Why Dunwoody is a Great Place to Live for Arts Lovers
Dunwoody’s commitment to the arts is just one of the many reasons why it’s a great place to live. With theaters like 1548 offering top-tier performances and schools nurturing future stars, the city provides ample opportunities for residents to engage with the arts.
If you’re moving to Dunwoody and are passionate about performing arts, you’ll find plenty of outlets to explore your creativity. From local theater productions to dance performances, the arts are an integral part of living in Dunwoody.
Final Thoughts: Supporting Local Arts in Dunwoody
As the episode wraps up, Matt Weber emphasizes the importance of supporting local arts in Dunwoody. Whether it’s attending a show at Theater 1548 or volunteering at the Fourth of July Parade, there are many ways to contribute to the community. “Theater 1548 brings people in, and then we keep them,” Scott jokes, but his message is clear: local arts play a vital role in building community.
For those moving to Dunwoody, getting involved in the arts can be a great way to meet people and make meaningful connections. The city’s strong support for local talent ensures that Dunwoody will continue to be a hub for creativity and culture for years to come.
