About the Wright Center
Transform your event into an experience.
2,500
Seating Available in the Upper and Lower Decks
10mi.
Approximate Distance from BHM International Airport
300
Complimentary Parking Spaces within Walking Distance
150ft.
Distance of Farthest Seating from the Stage
The Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center at Samford University is renowned as a premier destination for performing arts in Birmingham, hosting a variety of events attended by around 100,000 visitors annually.
Ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2026, this classic proscenium theatre has been fully equipped with theatrical lighting and sound to support world class performances and fiberoptic cable ideal for broadcasts and livestreaming. Boasting 2,500 seats, the theatre is designed so that no seat is more than 150 feet from the stage, giving guests a grand yet intimate experience.
Beyond its beauty and functionality, this stunning space comes with a professional production staff to help with each event. From symphonies to lectures and more, the Wright Center provides an unparalleled experience for the university and its community.
A Few Past Guests
Below is a select list of performers and guests hosted by the university.
Politicians
- George H. W. Bush
- Laura Bush
- Bill Clinton
- Jimmy Carter
- Rusk Dean
- Bob Dole
- Michael Dukakis
- Gerald Ford
- Arthur Goldberg
- Anthony M. Kennedy
- Ted Kennedy
- Daniel “Pat” Moynihan
- Ralph Nader
- Ronald Reagan
Musicians
- Annie Moses Band
- Jon Batiste
- Dave Brubeck
- Ray Charles
- DC Talk
- Amy Grant
- Jars of Clay
- Mercy Me
- Mnozil Brass
- Brad Paisley
- Preservation Hall
- Sister Hazel
- Vienna Boys Choir
Actors/Actresses
- Ed Asner
- Tim Conway
- Fannie Flagg
- Don Knotts
- Bernedette Peters
- Tom Poston
Entertainment
- Mikhail Baryshnikov
- David Copperfield
- Marcel Marceau
- Myth Busters
- Peking Acrobats
- Savion Glover
- Wait Wait, Don't Tell Me
Speakers/Public Figures
- Bobby Bowden
- Paul Harvey
- Roger Goodell
- Tim Tebow
- Tony Dungy
Lecture Series
- Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author Series
- Howard L. and Martha H. Holley Lectures
- Robbins Lecture
- Percy Cook Ratliff Lecture Series
- Provost J. Michael Hardin Distinguished Lecture Series
