Aptly named WorkPlay is something every city should have. Located in Birmingham, Alabama’s Southside warehouse district, it’s a multi-functional entertainment complex that gives a whole lot of music and event options to area residents. With a theater, soundstage, canteen, conference room and bar all in one hip industrial space, WorkPlay is home to live music, studio recording, film and TV production, corporate events and private parties. High ceilings and colorful, edgy design give it an atmosphere unlike any other spot in town.

It’s a great venue for musicians — and WorkPlay has a full calendar of well-priced shows that includes jazz artists, local musicians and performers of national stature. In addition to larger event and performance spaces, there’s a small cabaret-style club where the whole audience is close to the stage. The night I visited, there was a lot of interaction between the performers and the audience, which gave the show a really intimate feel. Keith Williams, a velvety jazz crooner and deft guitarist mesmerized the audience with his talent and patter, only to bring on his friend Vann Burchfield who could do things with a saxophone that were truly superhuman. He claims to have the Guinness record for holding a note and after listening to him, I’m sure he’s not kidding. Based on a process called circular breathing, he not only holds notes endlessly, but moves through the crowd and plays exceptional music while doing it.

WorkPlay, 500 23^rd Street South, Birmingham, AL

205 879-4086