It’s a two-fer.
It’s the opening of the 100th season of historic Virginia Samford Theatre in Birmingham’s Southside and the world premiere of the new performance, “Growing Up With Atticus” based on the 1962 movie, “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
The performance was written and will be performed by Mary Badham, who as a child played Scout in the blockbuster movie. Scout was the fictitious daughter of fictitious Atticus Finch. Badham is a native of Birmingham and lived there when she played Scout.
The second performer is Cecilia Peck, daughter of Gregory Peck, who played Atticus Finch in the 1960s movie. Cecilia Peck was five and Badham was 10 when they first befriended. They formed a lifelong bond through Cecilia Peck’s real father, who played Scout’s movie father.
You will hear personal stories of Gregory Peck, never before told memories, and stories from the making and lasting impact of “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
The premiere runs September 17–27, 2026 in the Virginia Samford Theatre.
This is an all-Alabama event. Award-winning novelist Harper Lee was born and raised in Monroeville, Alabama. That town was the inspiration for the setting of “To Kill A Mockingbird.”
Badham was nominated for the Academy Award’s Best Supporting Actress in 1963. She is now age 76 and the writer of the performance, “Growing Up with Atticus.” She is one of the two performers, along with Cecilia Peck, daughter of Gregory Peck who won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Atticus Finch.
This is Alabama – her recent past and her present.
The movie released in 1962. That was 64 years ago. It is amazing that Atticus Finch’s real daughter, Cecilia Peck, and his movie daughter, Scout, Mary Badham, are opening this performance about that experience with Atticus/Peck. 64 years ago. Not only was Badham the performer in both the 1962 movie and the 2026 performance about it, but she also wrote the performance.
Can we expect another nomination or award – 2026 and 1963?
“Miss Jean Louise (Scout), stand up. Your father’s passing.”
Tickets and information: AudienceView Professional
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler is a freelance writer about the colorful and positive in Alabama — her people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at [email protected].
