August 29, 2025

Vulcan Park & Museum to Host “Fred & Ruby”: A Play Honoring Birmingham Civil Rights Leaders

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Vulcan Park & Museum will host a special performance of Fred & Ruby, a two-person play that explores the lives and legacy of Birmingham civil rights activists Fred and Ruby Shuttlesworth, on Thursday, September 18, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

Set in Birmingham’s historic Terminal Station in 1957, Fred & Ruby offers audiences an intimate and candid look at the sacrifices made by the Shuttlesworth family in their fight for the African American community. The play highlights the lesser-known female perspective within the Civil Rights Movement through the experiences of Ruby Shuttlesworth, whose story is often overshadowed by history.

The production stars Robert Burgins as Fred Shuttlesworth and Tonya Marshall as Ruby Shuttlesworth, with script development by Felix Crutcher and direction by Alicia Johnson-Williams.

“We are honored to bring this important story to the community and shine a light on both Fred and Ruby Shuttlesworth’s vital roles in Birmingham’s struggle for equality and justice,” said Cynthia Cardona, President & CEO at Vulcan Park & Museum.

Fred & Ruby will be performed in the museum’s Electra event space. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the performance begins at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are available at visitvulcan.com/event/fredandruby. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for children ages 5–12, and free for Vulcan Park & Museum members.

Learn more about the Shuttlesworths on B’ham Wiki