Theater 1548 is the community theater at Dunwoody United Methodist Church in Dunwoody, GA, with more than 20 years of shows. After COVID, Scott Wilkinson helped rebrand it from a church ministry into a Dunwoody arts institution, and over half its audience now comes from outside the church. Its 2024 fall musical was Sister Act, starring Lia Prior.
I sat down with Scott Wilkinson and Phillia “Lia” Prior to talk about the theater scene at Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Theater 1548. We get into the Sister Act production, the rebrand at DUMC and how local arts are shaping our community.
Sister Act ran October 3 to 6, 2024. Find upcoming shows at Theater 1548.
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What Is Theater 1548?
Theater 1548 lives inside Dunwoody United Methodist Church and has more than 20 years of shows behind it. When COVID disrupted everything and the longtime director retired, Scott Wilkinson stepped in with a new vision.
“We wanted to be held to a higher standard,” Scott said. That meant rebranding from a church ministry into a true Dunwoody arts institution. The name Theater 1548 reflects that shift, and the crowds keep growing, many from outside the church and even outside the city.
Sister Act at Theater 1548
Lia Prior starred as Dolores in Sister Act, a show packed with music, comedy and a feel-good message. Lia had been passed over for the same role at another theater, and her mom encouraged her to audition again here. “It was meant to be,” she said.
Meet Lia Prior
Lia grew up in Dunwoody and went to High Point and Riverwood. Besides Theater 1548, she was also preparing a dance production called In Her Feelings at the Sewell Mill Cultural Arts Center.
How Theater 1548 Builds Community
Scott says more than half of the audience isn’t affiliated with the church. “Theater brings people together,” he said. He’s seen new friendships, families bonding and even people moving to Dunwoody after coming to shows.
Theater also builds confidence. Lia said she didn’t really believe in herself until she started performing, and Scott talked about how the stage helps with public speaking and self-awareness for kids and adults.
Volunteers Make Dunwoody Go
Scott is also one of the organizers behind the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade. Between ushering at shows and building floats, there’s always room for more volunteers. “We always need more help,” he said.
My Take
Dunwoody has a better arts scene than most people realize, between Theater 1548, the Spruill Center and concerts at Brook Run. If you’ve never been to a show at Theater 1548, put one on the calendar. Here are more things to do in Dunwoody.
Thinking About Moving to Dunwoody?
Read my Moving to Dunwoody guide, search Dunwoody homes for sale, or text me or call 404-502-8683.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theater 1548
What is Theater 1548?
The community theater at Dunwoody United Methodist Church in Dunwoody, GA, with more than 20 years of productions.
Do you have to be a church member to attend Theater 1548?
No. More than half of the audience is not affiliated with the church.
Where can I buy Theater 1548 tickets?
Upcoming shows and tickets are listed at dunwoodyumc.org/theatre-1548.
Who starred in Sister Act at Theater 1548?
Lia Prior played Dolores in the October 2024 production.