entertainment venue in West Birmingham — A new entertainment and empowerment center is on the way and it’s EPIC! (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

New things are coming to the west side of Birmingham. Local comedienne and minister, Valencia “Mrs. V” and Edward Johnson are preparing to open a community and event venue called The Epic Center. We’ve got the details.

According to The Birmingham Business Journal, The Epic Center will be a multifaceted facility that will support the community in various ways including mentorship programs for young girls and classes for former inmates.

It’ll be located at 1401 Third Avenue West within the Crown Plaza Shopping Center near Rickwood Field and down the street from the Birmingham CrossPlex. The entertainment venue spans 11,963 square feet. There will also be a special room dedicated to the City of Birmingham to book special occasions and private events.

The entertainment venue and empowerment center is expected to open April 2023.

Location: 1401 Third Avenue West, Birmingham, AL 35208

An EPIC Beginning

According to The Birmingham Business Journal, Valencia Johnson initially targeted Hoover for the center. The switch to West End was influenced by her husband, who previously served more than 20 years in prison, as he expressed a desire to bring connections, relationships and hope back to the west side of town.

BONUS: Did you know that Johnson writes musicals and stage plays including Bonita the Bag Lady, a one-woman show featuring eight characters?

Well, you’re going to love this—she plans to perform the show at The Epic Center beginning in August. She says the vision is huge and there will be no stone unturned at The Epic Center.

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