Ruby: The Musical is based on a true story in 1952 in Live Oak, Florida, that focuses on the life of Ruby McCollum — an affluent Black woman who’s been accused of murdering a white doctor who was also a notable politician and social influencer of his time. McCollum carries a bit of cache herself as she and her husband Sam run a successful gambling operation. The crime and the characters are all sorted out within a heavily segregated and racist Jim Crow South.
The theatrical production is set to open at Detroit’s Music Hall on Friday. It is produced by Florida’s Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and presented by the Michigan Chronicle and the Knight Foundation.
“Stories like this are the backbone of our community’s identity,” says Hiram Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media, which is sponsoring the production. “They remind us of the struggles our ancestors faced and the strength they showed in overcoming them. These stories aren’t just history lessons; they’re powerful tools that help us understand our present and shape our future. Retelling stories like this ensures we never lose sight of where we’ve been and how far we still need to go.”
Ruby made its world premiere in Sarasota in 2024. It features 20 original songs, and was written by brothers Nate and Michael Jacobs.
In its time, McCollum’s story drew national headlines thanks to coverage by writer Zora Neale Hurston for the Pittsburgh Courier. Jackson says he hopes the musical captivates a new generation.
“We want attendees to not only understand our history but feel inspired to continue the fight for progress and equality in their own lives,” says Jackson.
Performances at 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7-Saturday, Feb. 8 and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9. at the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, 350 Madison Ave., Detroit; 313-887-8500; musichall.org. Tickets are available from ticketmaster.com for $35-$65.
