Birmingham native Abigail Barlow wins first Grammy for popular Bridgerton musical

Birmingham’s on the national stage, thanks to a phenomenal TikTok musical that went viral. Birmingham native Abigail Barlow and her co-writer Emily Bear are officially Grammy winners. Keep reading to learn more about Barlow and her Grammy-winning musical and see what other Birmingham connections made it to the awards show.

Abigail Barlow + Emily Bear win the Grammy for best musical theater album

In 2021, Abigail Barlow began writing and performing songs inspired by the popular Netflix series Bridgerton. Her songs quickly captured attention on TikTok and soon enough, she and her co-writer Emily Bear were a viral sensation. The musical features 15 original songs following the plot and characters of Bridgerton.

Not familiar with the show? It’s set in Regency-era England and follows an affluent family as they enter courting season and the show’s star, Daphne Bridgerton, attempts to find a husband.

Their musical The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical beat out Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, Girl from the North Country, Les Misérables: The Stage Concert and Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots.

Beyond being Barlow and Bear’s first Grammy win, this award is also making history as the first award going to a project that began on TikTok.

Meet Birmingham’s Grammy winner

Abigail Barlow’s Birmingham connections run deep. The Mountain Brook native had theatre and arts experience from multiple Birmingham-based companies, including Red Mountain Theatre Company.

“It’s a dream and a half come true to be recognized for my biggest passion. I’m so grateful for the arts education I received from Red Mountain Theatre Company, Alabama School of Fine Arts, Birmingham Dance Theatre and beyond! I share this with all of my incredible mentors who encouraged me to never quit. I HOPE TO CONTINUE TO MAKE BHAM PROUD!”

Abigail Barlow

Barlow isn’t just a Grammy winner. She, along with Emily Bear, made it on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2022. Is there anything more exciting than seeing Birminghamians make our city proud?

The World Games 2022 at the Grammys

Abigail Barlow wasn’t the only Birminghamian at the Grammys this year. Birmingham’s very own Nick Sellers, CEO of The World Games 2022, was in attendance along with Rashada LeRoy, Executive Producer of Opening and Closing Ceremonies, and Henry Panion III, Creative Director. One of the musical acts performing at The World Games 2022 opening ceremony, The Blind Boys of Alabama, was nominated for a Grammy, too!

According to Nick, a big announcement for The World Games 2022 is coming soon… I don’t know about you, but I’m going to be on the edge of my seat until then.

Have you listened to The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical? Tag us @BhamNow to let us know!