Spring 2026   

Moving beyond the legends and myths, we will discover the complex lives of several diverse Wild West individuals. Through the stories of courage, ambition and survival of these trailblazers, we will hopefully gain insight into the social, political and cultural forces that fostered core American values that still help define the national identity.

This course examines English history in the fifteenth century following the Plantagenet dynasty, spotlighting the rise and struggles of the Lancastrian and Yorkist dynasties. Special attention will be given to King Henry V and his pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War, along with an exploration of Richard III—both the historical figure and the myths surrounding him. The course brings to life a dramatic era of English political intrigue, warfare, and royal power struggles that set the stage for the Tudor dynasty.

Discover the origins and evolution of American folk and roots music, with special attention to African-American folk traditions and their commercial separation from Anglo-American folk music. This course also explores the folk music of Alabama, the structure and composition of traditional folk, roots, and blues music, and the lasting cultural impact of influential musicians.

Why do certain traditional Eastern practices make us feel better?  Do they have positive physical and mental health effects?  We will examine current research in the field of Neuroscience to better understand the benefits of ancient practices, including pranayama (breathwork), asana (yoga), meditation (mindfulness) and the mind-body connection.

This course provides students with hands-on stagecraft experience in technical theatre foundations. Students explore set construction, scenic painting, prop creation, technical theatre best practices, set dressing, and more. Students meet weekly and, under the direction of Fantasy Playhouse's Production staff, will be an integral part of creating the set for Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy’s spring 2026 production of Winnie the Pooh, The Musical.

Are you familiar with Tai Chi Yang-24 movements? Maybe you’ve taken a class in the past.  Here’s a chance for you to improve your practice. Class participants don’t need to be proficient, but should have some experience with Yang-24. We’ll work on honing our movements, fine-tuning our form, and deepening our discipline. We’ll concentrate on the health and wellness benefits of Tai Chi as we go beyond the basics.

This course will review recent psychological science that reveals how induced wonder and awe (ranging from an intense, rarified state to “everyday” awe) increases individual fulfillment. Plus, have you read a book and wondered, “If this author were to draw or paint, what would it look like?” Well-known authors (classic, contemporary, songwriters) who also express themselves visually (ranging from doodling to accomplished paintings) will be used to exemplify content.

This course will review recent psychological science that reveals how induced wonder and awe (ranging from an intense, rarified state to “everyday” awe) increases individual fulfillment. Plus, have you read a book and wondered, “If this author were to draw or paint, what would it look like?” Well-known authors (classic, contemporary, songwriters) who also express themselves visually (ranging from doodling to accomplished paintings) will be used to exemplify content.

Experience a low impact exercise that can become a lifelong approach to improving and maintaining balance, coordination, and flexibility.  Tai chi incorporates slow, gentle movements that promote concentration and mindfulness.  It also builds a sense of community and belonging as participants perform the movements together.  Upon completion, enjoy tai chi's physical and mental benefits at a basic level.  This course is intended for individuals new to tai chi (i.e., true beginners).  Students will learn the fundamentals of tai chi through the Yang style 10-movement form.  This class is appropriate for individuals capable of standing without a need for assistance. 

This discussion course will focus on the rapid political and social changes that Democrats and Republicans have had to negotiate over the past 25 years. We will take an objective approach to explore political and social trends impacting both major parties as they struggle to gain and maintain power.

This is an opportunity for absolute beginners to learn to play the world’s most popular card game. Have fun while you stimulate your mind in a relaxed, congenial social environment. Designed especially for the true beginner, you’ll learn the basics of the game and become ready to play with friends and relatives. The text, Bidding in the 21st Century, will be provided free of charge. 

The Beatles released their final album in 1970, a year during which each of the band members released a solo album. The success of the band followed each of them into productive careers.  With lecture, video, and music, explore the years after The Fab Four made their last joint performance.

The Beatles released their final album in 1970, a year during which each of the band members released a solo album. The success of the band followed each of them into productive careers.  With lecture, video, and music, explore the years after The Fab Four made their last joint performance.

A team of local naturalists will guide this multi-disciplinary course, exploring topics such as botany, ichthyology, ornithology, geology, and ecology. Each instructor will share their unique expertise and personal observations, offering insights into the remarkable natural diversity of our region. This course provides a deep dive into the natural world through the eyes of those who have spent years studying and appreciating the environment around us.

If you are a casual bridge player but want to take your game to a higher level, this course is for you. Learn some of the ways you can prevent your opponent from making his contract. This course expands on the lessons learned in previous classes by concentrating on how you and your partner can analyze what the declarer is trying to do and respond accordingly. The text, Defense in the 21st Century, will be provided free of charge.

Writing your life story can be an exciting journey. Join a group of like-minded explorers as you share your life. This is not a "how to write" class--your skill level doesn't matter at all. It is an environment to encourage and support your journey. You will be provided hand-outs and reading recommendations to guide you. Be prepared to write and read parts of your story and enjoy sharing your life  and hearing about the lives of your classmates.

What is science? Can we trust what it tells us? The answers to both of these questions are far more complicated than you might think. This course explores what distinguishes science from its competitors, and it considers how scientific claims come to count as knowledge. It even debunks some of the standard assertions of “textbook science.” Upon examination, science may be far less objective, but no less powerful, than we are sometimes led to believe. 

Probability is a relatively modern branch of mathematics that has a surprisingly wide range of applications, from games of chance to quantum mechanics to artificial intelligence. We'll learn the fundamentals of this branch of math and explore how they are applied to more and more areas of science and modern life.

This beginner yoga course is designed to promote healthy aging and overall well-being. It will incorporate fundamental yoga poses that help increase flexibility, improve balance, and strengthen muscles needed for daily activities. You'll also learn breathing techniques and mindfulness practices to promote a calm mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. Using a gentle, accessible approach to yoga with modifications, this course is suitable for all levels, including those with limited flexibility or prior experience. Please wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict movement.

Are you interested in a weight-training class with an emphasis on upper- and lower-body strengthening, but not ready to take the full plunge into weight lifting? This introductory course will include working with weights, using proper form to strengthen your upper and lower body, and exercises for full-body mobility. You will be instructed on how to progress to higher weights and repetitions throughout the course. The instructor offers a gentle entry into an important experience toward a stronger body. The studio has all the equipment you will need. Please bring water to the class.

Read an awesome mix of literature, history, psychology, and philosophy...masterworks to reclaim conversation and foster spirited intellectual exchange.  Instead of raising and lowering our eyes to check our phones let's engage in dialogue.  Conversation is the most human and humanizing thing we do. So, here is a chance for good face-to-face engagement and connection.

If you're wondering what's ahead, we'll share strategies to address the challenges of aging. You have already succeeded with the preliminaries for this course by being here, but some new wrinkles may appear. We'll explore some of the common ones in activity level, health, housing, and outlook, and consider ways to keep the going easy, interesting, and rewarding.

If you want to learn basic French for travel or general interest, this course is for you. We will review common scenarios and verbs to set you on the path.

Have you ever wondered what the story behind the story was? Hear authors explain their stories and how they came to write that story. Ask questions about their writing and research techniques to find out what makes some authors choose specific subjects and characters.

Have you ever wondered what the story behind the story was? Hear authors explain their stories and how they came to write that story. Ask questions about their writing and research techniques to find out what makes some authors choose specific subjects and characters.

Walk along the Trail of Tears, where sorrow and strength intertwine, through haunting photographs and treasured artifacts. With the use of personal stories, we'll glimpse traditions, resilience, and the living spirit of Native peoples. This is not just history – it is a journey into presence and endurance.

This course completes the history of Afghanistan that started last fall. It will cover the establishment of the monarchy, the "Great Game" between Russia and Britain, the overthrow of the monarchy, invasion and rule by the Soviet Union, the rise of the Taliban, the US invasion and occupation, and the resurgence of Taliban rule.

Welcome to Spring Into Health! This course is your fresh start to feeling your best – physically, mentally, and emotionally. As nature renews itself, you’ll learn how to do the same through simple, sustainable habits in nutrition, movement, and self-care. Whether you're looking to boost energy, reduce stress, or build a healthier routine, this journey will help you grow into your goals. Let spring be your season of wellness and lasting change.

Moderators will introduce a range of experts – including doctors, lawyers, home healthcare specialists, security experts, funeral directors, and others – who will provide practical guidance on critical topics. Classes go beyond traditional “estate planning,” offering insight into the many challenging and personal decisions that arise in the final chapter of life.

Moderators will introduce a range of experts – including doctors, lawyers, home healthcare specialists, security experts, funeral directors, and others – who will provide practical guidance on critical topics. Classes go beyond traditional “estate planning,” offering insight into the many challenging and personal decisions that arise in the final chapter of life.

Here is your chance to discuss hot topics in a forum setting. In each class, members talk about a question they have chosen that does not have a yes or no answer. What’s on your mind — today’s news or a timeless topic of general interest? Challenge yourself to think about it, talk about it, and listen to others from all walks of life, nationalities, religions, political opinions, and genders. Everyone and all points of view are welcome.

Are you challenged by shopping at the supermarket? Want to eat better but don't know how to pick out foods? This course will discuss the different categories of food, what to look for, and what to avoid.

Are you challenged by shopping at the supermarket? Want to eat better but don't know how to pick out foods? This course will discuss the different categories of food, what to look for, and what to avoid.

Learn the essentials of landscape tree care, focusing on keeping your outdoor spaces healthy and beautiful. This course covers proper planting, watering, pruning, and long-term maintenance, while highlighting the vital role trees play in the natural environment. With simple, practical guidance, you’ll gain the confidence to nurture trees that thrive season after season, enhancing both your landscape and your connection to nature.

Enrich your knowledge of contemporary German terms as we engage in reading and translating Des Spielers Tod. Join the detective duo, Kommisar Baumgartner and Katharina Momsen, as they solve a murder mystery at a seedy internet café located in Berlin, Germany.  "Viel Spaß beim Lesen von einem Krimi!"

Ever wanted to try a medium or technique but did not have the time or money? Each week, this course will give students the opportunity to Try It! Some different mediums are Alcohol, Acrylic, or Bombay inks; Tempera, Gouache, or Pouring Paints; Spray Stains; Gelli Plates; and Embossing and Art Journaling. Some of the techniques we will explore include sgraffito, stippling, dabbing, scumbling, stamping, stenciling, impasto with palette knives, different types of markers, and much more.

Looking for ways to boost your Spanish conversation? Learn words, phrases, sentences, and grammar that will improve your ability. The course includes a review of material such as numbers and names of weeks and months.

Many things cause bone loss, including medications, soda, alcohol, smoking, inadequate absorption of nutrients, medical conditions, and more. Hip fractures significantly increase the risk of losing independence and even death. Unfortunately, bone density medications carry risk and potential side effects. This course will help attendees identify their potential risk factors and discover natural ways to protect their bones. With these approaches, it is possible to slow, stop, and even reverse bone loss. 

Shakespeare’s magic is at its best in "A Midsummer Night’s Dream." The bard mixes a delightful assortment of characters with moonlight, fantasy, and romance to create a story of hilarious confusion and misunderstanding, which nevertheless manages a happy ending. We will read and discuss the play and view scenes from different productions. Scripts are not required but are useful. Those uncomfortable with Elizabethan English may find the No Fear Shakespeare series helpful.

Move over, Amelia! It's time to shine some light on other amazing women in the history of aviation. This course provides a brief timeline of women in aviation. The goal is to highlight many of the firsts and achievements of women as pilots and other roles in aviation that have been buried or forgotten by time. Women on this list have piloted various vehicles, including hot-air balloons, gliders, airplanes, dirigibles, and helicopters.

Successful aging is, in part, a result of planning ahead. Planning for asset preservation and management during your lifetime is just as important as planning for how your assets will be distributed at your death. These workshops will include a discussion of the documents needed for a complete estate plan and options available to preserve and manage assets in the event of long-term care.

Discover the calming power of mindful movement. This course introduces you to simple, flowing practices from the traditions of Tai Chi & Qigong – gentle arts known for promoting balance, relaxation, and inner vitality. The movements can be practiced seated in a chair or standing, as preferred. No prior experience is needed. Learn gentle Tai Chi and Qigong routines you can enjoy in daily life for stress relief and self-healing.

Aesthetics is the philosophical study of beauty. We will trace appearances of the beautiful in literature, music, and art, from antiquity to today. The goal is to find answers to the question: Why do we need the beautiful in our lives now? 

It's never too late to learn to dance! Get in line to learn several popular line dances to a wide variety of music. Each line dance has its own repeating sequence of steps danced in unison. No dance experience or partner needed.

This course will cover all aspects of native gardening, renovations, principles, and preparations!  Learn how to find plants and add decoration to your own special garden, whether it is old or new. Happy Gardening!

Join us for an exploration of the major works of William Wordsworth, the fascinating and engaging poet instrumental in the creation of the Romantic movement in English literature in the early 1800s. We'll engage with his "Lines Written a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey" and "Ode: Intimations of Immortality" along with many other works. Reading Wordsworth, you find yourself understanding and appreciating what is best in humankind.

It’s time for beer class! Yet another tasting extravaganza awaits. We will once again be sampling the best of Huntsville’s craft beers. Along with our tastings ,we will have some guest appearances by a soon-to-be Cicerone (that’s fancy talk for someone who knows a lot about beer). Join us. There is always something new to learn about beer. 

If you bought a nice digital camera, but you've been shooting in auto mode because you are not comfortable with manual settings or post-processing, this is the course for you. Bring your own camera, or borrow one from the instructor, and we will step you through how to take your photography to the next level. The course will explore focus, exposure (aperture, speed, ISO), raw file format, and post-processing in Lightroom.

For over 25 years, the American military was involved a violent struggle with the Apache for control of the southwestern frontier. At the end of this costly conflict, the frontier was open and the Apache leaders were imprisoned in Alabama, Florida and Oklahoma. We'll discuss the issues, the battles, the personalities and why this war was so important in American history.

Explore 250 years of American music — from classical and folk roots to jazz, Broadway, country and rock. This class examines how composers and communities use music to express freedom, struggle, innovation and national identity.

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere – from ChatGPT to Alexa to Netflix recommendations – but it isn’t always right. This course explores how AI tools can inform, inspire, and assist while also occasionally “hallucinating” convincing but incorrect information. Through live demonstrations and hands-on examples, participants will learn how to ask better questions, recognize mistakes, and think critically about AI’s role in society. No technical background required. Just curiosity!

This art history course follows art movements from 1910 to 1980, including Dadaism, Realism, Regionalism, Modernism, Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, Installation, and Happenings.

This art history course follows art movements from 1910 to 1980, including Dadaism, Realism, Regionalism, Modernism, Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, Installation, and Happenings.

Learn how to identify up to 30 tree species at the recently established Tree Trail at Maple Hill Cemetery. Along the way, we'll visit several interesting historic gravesites. All class sessions will meet at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Don’t like the current weather or the forecast? Too bad, not much you can do to change it. But we can at least understand what is happening in our atmosphere to cause it. Participants will utilize current atmospheric data – pressures, temperatures, winds – to create maps and interpret the conditions and effects. Each weekly class will have hands-on activities, and we will take a field trip to the National Weather Service.

Discover the fascinating world of amphibians and reptiles by exploring their anatomy, physiology, behavior, and the vital roles they play in our ecosystems!

This intermediate yoga course is designed for those with some yoga experience wanting to expand their practice. It will incorporate modifications and variations of poses to ensure safety and promote well-being, while also incorporating alignment cues to help refine the practice and improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Each week will build upon the previous, introducing new poses and variations while reinforcing foundational movements and breathwork. This course aims to improve physical health, reduce stress, and promote a greater sense of well-being and balance. Please wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict movement.

Every lesson for living, learning, serving, leading, and praying is either written indelibly in or is powerfully inspired by Nature. Lifelong Nature enthusiasts, we recognize the fury and glory of Nature. We are committed to applying the passion of our beliefs to the service of reason. We will introduce lessons from our experience and teach the wisdom of recognized great conservationists and leaders across the ages.

Every lesson for living, learning, serving, leading, and praying is either written indelibly in or is powerfully inspired by Nature. Lifelong Nature enthusiasts, we recognize the fury and glory of Nature. We are committed to applying the passion of our beliefs to the service of reason. We will introduce lessons from our experience and teach the wisdom of recognized great conservationists and leaders across the ages.

We all carry stories – funny, touching, surprising – that remind us how our lives are woven together. In this interactive course, you'll discover how to bring your own experiences to life. Through prompts, laughter, and shared memories, we'll explore the stories only you can tell. Your "ordinary" moments are actually extraordinary threads in the fabric that knits us all together.

Color is never an innocent or passive entity in our world, but an important actor in its own right. Humans have used color throughout millennia for Art, Industry, and Institutions. Unusual stories of 75 fascinating shades, dyes, and hues that run like a bright thread throughout history. Enter a unique study of human civilization, across fashion, politics, art, and war. The secret lives of color tell the vivid story of our culture and how artists have used color to express essential ideas and needs.

Color is never an innocent or passive entity in our world, but an important actor in its own right. Humans have used color throughout millennia for Art, Industry, and Institutions. Unusual stories of 75 fascinating shades, dyes, and hues that run like a bright thread throughout history. Enter a unique study of human civilization, across fashion, politics, art, and war. The secret lives of color tell the vivid story of our culture and how artists have used color to express essential ideas and needs.

Are you seeking a better understanding of your investment options? Join your instructor as she shares strategies to help you achieve your financial goals in today’s market. Learn how to ensure your investments are on track, explore ways to save on taxes, plan for your family’s future, protect your assets, and pass on your legacy. 

It's never too late to learn to dance! Let's "cut a rug" to popular rock-and-roll songs! Learn several steps to enjoy Swing Dancing at your next social event. Have fun regardless of your level of dance experience. It is helpful to sign up with a partner, but it is not required.

Join us for a fun four weeks of learning art basics. Learn about different art elements and principles of art, and short projects that will emphasize what you have learned.

All are welcome.

Hear legal experts highlight instances when justice was blind and when the innocent were not protected. While we cannot remedy those wrongs, we can devote ourselves to shaping a more just future. Local civil rights attorneys, journalists, and prominent scholars will analyze examples of injustice, such as that inflicted on the Scottsboro Boys. Each class will feature a guest speaker, ready to take questions and promote discussion. John Archibald: Pulitzer Prize Award author & reporter, Sue Bell Cobb; Redemption Earned, and Thomas Reidy; Scottsboro Boys Museum, are on the lineup, along with many more. 

In this course, we will learn about, write, workshop, and share various Japanese poetic forms, such as haiku, senryu, haibun, haiga, and tanka.

The Gulf of Tonkin Incident in early August 1964 continues to be hotly debated as to what actually occurred between two U.S. Navy warships and North Vietnamese gunboats. Regardless, this incident at sea is indelibly identified as the justification for President Johnson deciding to intervene and to escalate U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Let's delve into the facts and discuss.

To counter, limit, neutralize, or inactivate the toxins in our society which are being purveyed through social or a social media, legacy or independent journalism, and politicians and their toadies, we need vigilance and appropriate critiques and antidotes. The objective of this course is to challenge the rewritten realities, invented history, and imaginary geography that manipulate us.  Engaging in discussion and conversation might help us get closer to the truth and might help us resist and combat the falsehoods and distortions in our post-truth age. 

Experience a low impact exercise that can become a lifelong approach to improving and maintaining balance, coordination, and flexibility.  Tai chi incorporates slow, gentle movements that promote concentration and mindfulness.  It also builds a sense of community and belonging as participants perform the movements together.  Upon completion, enjoy tai chi's physical and mental benefits at a basic level.  This course is intended for individuals new to tai chi (i.e., true beginners).  Students will learn the fundamentals of tai chi through the Yang style 10-movement form.  This class is appropriate for individuals capable of standing without a need for assistance. 

Follow the dance of maneuvers between Union General William T. Sherman and Confederate General Joseph Johnston in their climactic campaign that decided the fate of Atlanta in 1864. The course covers the strategy, tactics, and logistical problems of both sides. With  Atlanta captured, Sherman could next plan how to "make Georgia howl!"

Follow the dance of maneuvers between Union General William T. Sherman and Confederate General Joseph Johnston in their climactic campaign that decided the fate of Atlanta in 1864. The course covers the strategy, tactics, and logistical problems of both sides. With  Atlanta captured, Sherman could next plan how to "make Georgia howl!"

In this course, we will continue to work through the reading list we began in the fall, engaging with authentic French texts and discussing them.

Anthropology is the study of human beings in general, from our evolutionary roots and past peoples to modern language and culture. This course will touch upon the following areas of anthropology: Biological, Archaeology, Cultural, Linguistic, Applied, and Medical.

Anthropology is the study of human beings in general, from our evolutionary roots and past peoples to modern language and culture. This course will touch upon the following areas of anthropology: Biological, Archaeology, Cultural, Linguistic, Applied, and Medical.

Rev It Up is a class for those with good balance who want to do things to prevent becoming balance-compromised. The program utilizes high-impact aerobics, circuits, and strength-training techniques. Get ready to improve your health as you move to music!

Have you heard about Pickleball and are interested in playing, but don't know where to start? This is the course for you. Designed for beginners, this course will teach you the rules of the game, proper techniques and basic strategy. Join the latest sports craze that is taking over the nation. All necessary equipment will be provided.

Designed for actors of all experience levels, explore a classic performance style that requires no line memorization! This course will help you develop vocal technique, facial expression, character interpretation, beat analysis, and active listening while exploring the work of Tony-winning American playwright Arthur Miller.

Explore the world of wine through this introductory course designed for beginners. Learn how wine is made, discover key grape varieties and regions, and develop tasting skills through guided samplings of classic wines from around the globe. A reasonable sampling fee will be charged per session. Cheers!

The Brain Dance is a movement series composed of eight developmental patterns that healthy human beings naturally move through in the first year of life. Cycling through these patterns, whether sitting or standing, daily or weekly, has been proven beneficial for reorganizing our central nervous system and may help fill any gaps in our neurological system caused by illness, environment, injury, or cognitive decline. Performed in a calm and flowing pattern to relaxing music, the movements release stress, improve range of motion, and encourage oxygenation and mind/body connection. No dance experience required!

Be transported to France as you are introduced to authentic recipes, insights into French culture, and helpful phrases for travelers. Coffee will be provided, and light, savory treats and sweet treats will be available for purchase. 

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder! This course explores the history of what was considered beautiful and handsome through the ages. We will explore the concept of beauty from the Stone Age through the ages and how it is shaped by society and cultural beliefs.