Birmingham Hosts Alabama’s Storytelling Legends for an Unforgettable Evening of Humor and Insight

Birmingham Buzz: An Evening with Alabama’s Storytelling Legends!

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of laughs, insights, and more than a few heartwarming stories! On December 2, the incredible Rick Bragg and the hilarious Roy Wood, Jr. will join forces for a captivating conversation at the Alys Stephens Center. This event is a part of the 2024 Alabama Colloquium series, organized by the Alabama Humanities Alliance (AHA), and it’s shaping up to be a night you won’t want to miss!

Meet the Stars of the Night

Let’s start with Rick Bragg, a name synonymous with storytelling in the South. This Pulitzer Prize-winning writer has a way of weaving words that pulls you right into the heart of his narratives. Growing up in the charming town of Piedmont, Alabama, Rick began his journey into journalism as a student at Jacksonville State University. From there, he climbed the ranks, contributing to respected publications like the Anniston Star and The New York Times, where he earned that shiny Pulitzer in 1996 for his feature writing!

Bragg isn’t just a fantastic journalist; he’s also a celebrated author with a slew of notable books to his name, including “All Over But the Shouting” and “Prince of Frogtown”. His latest works have captured the spirit of Alabama and its people, earning him loyal readers who appreciate his unique voice. When he’s not busy writing books, you can catch him penning thought-provoking pieces for magazines such as Southern Living and Garden & Gun. Now that’s what you call multi-talented!

And then we have Roy Wood, Jr., the stand-up comic with charisma to spare! Growing up right here in Birmingham, Roy burst onto the comedy scene back in 1998 and never looked back. From his days spinning tunes at 95.7 Jamz to becoming a prominent correspondent on The Daily Show, Roy has made a name for himself both on stage and on screen. His witty observations and relatable humor resonate with audiences across the country. He’s even flexed his acting chops in shows like Better Call Saul and the critically acclaimed Only Murders in the Building.

One can’t forget his role in the Birmingham-shot film The Death of Dick Long, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker and fellow Alabama native Daniel Scheinert, best known for Everything Everywhere All At Once. It’s safe to say that Roy isn’t just a one-trick pony—he’s a versatile talent who brings laughter wherever he goes!

What to Expect

During this special evening, audiences can expect a lively conversation as Bragg and Wood explore their journeys, Alabama’s cultural richness, and the art of storytelling. It promises not just to be informative but also entertaining, filled with plenty of anecdotes and perhaps a joke or two! Plus, you can look forward to hearing about the unique experiences that have shaped their careers and lives in this wonderful state.

This event follows another successful colloquium held earlier this year featuring local music legends Jason Isbell and Brittany Howard in conversation. It’s clear that the AHA is committed to celebrating the incredible talents that hail from Alabama.

Grab Your Tickets!

If you’re itching to be part of this exciting event, tickets are available and range from $50 to $100. Not only will you enjoy a memorable evening, but you’ll also be supporting the Alabama Humanities Alliance in their mission to promote cultural understanding. So, whether you’re a fan of Bragg’s engaging tales or Wood’s uproarious comedy, this event is bound to inspire, entertain, and bring the community together.

For more information or to snag your tickets, be sure to check out the Alys Stephens Center’s website. Don’t wait too long—something tells us these tickets will go fast!

Get ready to laugh, learn, and soak in the magic that only Alabama’s storytellers can provide!