Judd McCluney on his Birmingham theater history, ‘Jake’s Women’ at Cahaba Theatre Group

After appearing in one of Terrific New Theatre’s first productions, “Orphans,” Judd McCluney has starred in a number of shows at Birmingham theaters over the years. His latest, “Jake’s Women,” is a readers theater production presented by Cahaba Theatre Group at the Clubhouse on Highland. (There’s one performance, on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 2:30 p.m.). Here, McCluney talks about some of his favorite roles, as well as some of the people he has worked with over the years, including some Birmingham legends.

What’s your first memory of being on stage?

My first memory of being on stage was singing “Jingle Bells” with the 4-year-old kindergarten class of First Methodist Church in Gadsden.

When did you come to Birmingham?

I came to Birmingham in 1981 to study theater at UAB. My first show in Birmingham was “A Christmas Carol” at Birmingham Children’s Theatre. I played Young Scrooge to the legendary Bob Penny’s Scrooge.

What are some of your favorite roles?

Favorite roles include Treat in “Orphans” at TNT. It was my first time working with Carl Stewart, and I was not only directed by him, but I was actually on stage with him as he played Harold. Also, Rudy in “Bent,” Felix in “The Normal Heart.” I got to play one of my dream roles when I played Norman in “The Dresser.” It was wonderful to work with my old dear friends Bethe Ensey, who directed, Jack Cannon, who played Sir, and the great Penny Thomas and Beth Kitchin. I was last seen in “Glengarry Glen Ross,” directed by the late, great Barry Austin.

Tell me about your current show.

This is my third time to work with Cahaba Theatre Group, and this time I am playing Jake in Neil Simons “Jake’s Women.” It’s a funny yet poignant look into the neurotic mind of Jake and all the women past and present that have come in and out of his life. It is directed by the delightful Martha Summey with a wonderful talented group of ladies. I have the chance to share the stage with my cousin Summer Guffey, who will be playing my daughter.

What’s next for you?

Next up for me will be my eighth appearance in Ravenswood Radio Theatre’s production of “It’s A Wonderful Life Live!” at the Virginia Samford Theatre. It’s a very special Christmas tradition for me.

“Jake’s Women,” a production of Cahaba Theatre Group at the Clubhouse on Highland, Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m.