Birmingham to Honor Literary Legends Roy Wood Jr. and Rick Bragg in Special Event This December

Birmingham to Celebrate Two Literary Giants This December!

On December 2, a buzz of excitement will fill the air in Birmingham as the Alabama Humanities Alliance plans to honor two of Alabama’s most beloved cultural figures—Roy Wood Jr. and Rick Bragg—at a ceremonious event at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. This gathering is not just an ordinary event; it’s a way to recognize the immense contributions these two artists have made to the heart and soul of Alabama’s narrative.

Two Talents, One Special Night

Roy Wood Jr., a Birmingham native, isn’t just any comedian; he’s one with a knack for weaving the past and present into his humor. Starting his journey at 95.7 JAMZ-WBHJ, he transitioned into stand-up comedy and has since become a nationally recognized satirist during his impressive eight-year tenure on the Emmy-winning show, “The Daily Show”. Not one to slow down, Wood Jr. has released three comedy specials, with a fourth on the horizon set for 2025. He was also the headliner at the prestigious White House Correspondents Dinner in 2023, a testament to his growing profile!

On this special night in December, Wood and Bragg will engage in an insightful dialogue, sharing stories, laughter, and life lessons with an eager audience. This event also marks a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Alabama Humanities Alliance (AHA).

A Brilliant Storyteller Takes the Stage

We can’t talk about storytelling without mentioning the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Bragg. Known for his compelling narrative style and relatable tales, Bragg has published over a dozen books. His first book, All Over but the Shoutin’, has touched the hearts of many and remains a colorful anthem for those from the mountain South. With awards such as the James Beard Award and the Harper Lee Award under his belt, Bragg is a literary giant whose work has shaped and reshaped the way stories are told. For the past two decades, he’s also been making a difference as a professor of writing at the University of Alabama.

The Heart of Alabama’s Storytelling Tradition

But it’s not just the awards these two have racked up; it’s the essence of their storytelling that really resonates. In an essay for AHA’s Mosaic magazine, Dr. Jeffrey Melton highlights Wood Jr.’s unique ability to use humor as a bridge to understanding complex social issues, saying, “If I can get you to laugh at it, then I can get you to listen.” That sounds easy, but it’s a rare gift, and one that both of these artists share.

Cassandra King, another Alabama Humanities Fellow, noted Bragg’s storytelling prowess, adding, “Rick’s works aren’t just important; they’re the essence of why we need the bond of storytelling today more than ever.” It’s all about the connection between past and present, and how we learn from it to shape our future.

Event Details You Won’t Want to Miss!

So, if you’re in Birmingham on December 2nd, make sure you grab your tickets! The evening promises an engaging conversation with insights into the lives and craft of two of Alabama’s most treasured storytellers. Plus, copies of Bragg’s books will be up for grabs thanks to our fantastic friends at Thank You Books. Here’s what you need to know:

• Event: The Alabama Colloquium: Honoring Rick Bragg and Roy Wood Jr.
• Location: Jemison Concert Hall, Alys Stephens Center, Birmingham
• Date: December 2, 2024, at 6:30 p.m.
• Tickets: Available online, by phone, or in-person via the UAB Box Office: my.alysstephens.org/3382 | 205.975.2787

This event is a part of the AHA’s Colloquium series, made possible by generous sponsors including Regions Bank and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.

Join the Celebration!

Celebrate these literary icons—dive into stories, share laughs, and appreciate the art of storytelling that binds us all together. The people of Alabama are lucky to have such incredible voices weighing in on our shared history and culture. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this memorable evening in Birmingham!