How would you like to tell people you lived or worked in Jugtown? For one teacher in 1906, the thought was unimaginable.

A lifelong Gardendale resident decided to write the story of how the city got its current name and the full story on how (and why) Gardendale changed its name from Jugtown will be the subject of a play at this year’s Magnolia Festival.

Norma Young said she grew up hearing the story of the city’s name change in the early 20th Century and always thought it would make a great play, but never really had the proper venue for it.

Then she heard that the 15th annual Magnolia Festival would focus on the history of the city, including craftsmen and trades from the early days of Gardendale.

She immediately contacted Magnolia Festival organizer Kathleen Phillips and director Don Garrett and “Jugtown Turnaround” became a reality.

“I had the facts, but I didn’t know how to put in the entertainment,” Young said.

Taking some “theatrical liberties,” according to Young, Garrett turned the story into a play, adding dialogue and humor while preserving the history.

The play will be performed during the festival, April 22-23, at the Gardendale High School auditorium and Young has a number of surprises for play attendees, including the script, which she guards closely. The best way to get a sneak peek at the play is to audition for a role and be a part of the play.

Auditions will be held for anyone 7 years old or older who is interested in being a part of the play. Auditions will be Feb. 1-2 from 6-8 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center. For more information, email gdalemagfest@gmail.com or call 514-6799.

“I think people will enjoy it and Gardendale will be proud of it,” Young said. “I hope it will be that way, anyway.”