Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
See what makes this concert a scary good time + how to get tickets—Oct. 30, 2026
Reading time: 3 minutes
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Get into the Halloween spirit, Birmingham: Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is bringing your favorite horror movie soundtracks to life.
On Friday, October 30, ASO will immerse UAB’s Alys Stephens Center into a night of thrills and chills with “After Dark: A Symphony of Shivers.” Spoiler: you can wear a costume.
Read on for a sneak peek at the evening’s program + see what other Halloween fun is in store.
When + where you can see ASO’s special Halloween production
Led by conductor Chris Confessore, ASO will bring iconic horror movie music to life, including selections from fan-favorite spooky films like “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Psycho,” “Harry Potter” and “Wicked.”
ASO Second Trombonist Masa Ohtake says the program is a chance to explore a different side of the orchestra:
“We are always looking for creative ways to provide the community with different entertainment options, and I’m glad to see us tap into the Halloween season festivities in addition to our Christmas holiday traditions.”
Masa Ohtake, Second Trombonist, Alabama Symphony Orchestra
‘After Dark: A Symphony of Shivers’ details:
- When: Friday, October 30, 2026 | 7PM
- Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall | 1200 10th Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35294
- Cost: $36.50-$95.50
- Dress code: Costumes encouraged
- Get your tickets to experience haunting music like never before!
Dress the part for ASO’s ‘A Symphony of Shivers’
This isn’t your typical night at the symphony where a nice dress or suit and tie would be the norm. For this special Halloween performance, audience members are encouraged to show up in costume.
You can channel your favorite movie character, go full horror-mode or simply throw on a silly mask—ASO wants to see you in the audience wearing your Halloween best.
Once you’ve picked out what you’re going to wear, use ASO’s props and spooky backdrop to capture the memories of your evening at the concert hall (though don’t be surprised if your vampire friends fail to show up in the photos).
Enjoy ‘A Symphony of Shivers’ for a good cause
While “A Symphony of Shivers” is designed to be a fun Halloween-season experience, Ohtake says concerts like this are part of something bigger.
ASO’s performances have positive effects throughout the community. From partnerships with the health care industry providing music to patients and their families to bringing musical education programs to underserved communities, ASO is proving the power of connecting people through music.
“A symphony isn’t just an entity for entertainment (even though that’s a fun part of the job too!)—it’s a vital piece within the vast tapestry of a city’s culture.”
Masa Ohtake, Second Trombonist, Alabama Symphony Orchestra
Alabama is one of 25 states in the U.S. with a full-time, professional symphony orchestra and events like “A Symphony of Shivers” help fund their continued presence in our community.
If you’re looking for a spook-tacular way to celebrate Halloween and support the arts in Birmingham, grab your tickets for Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s After Dark: A Symphony of Shivers now!
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