We all know how this story will end; we all know what an important piece of history was made with the glorious words of Thomas Jefferson. What some of us do not know is that the Declaration of Independence was not signed on July 4, and was ratified and completely signed months later. But none of this takes away from the delight of A.C.T.’s production of “1776”.
Composer and lyricist Sherman Edwards and playwright Peter Stone deliver a piece of history with humor and sensitivity. It makes for a delightful evening of fine theatre, presenting the audience with a thumbnail view of our Founding Fathers. You won’t leave the theatre humming tunes from the score, but at times you will be touched by the delivery of the lyrics and music by the gifted cast. “1776” originally opened on Broadway in 1969, won many awards and had a long successful run.
Celebrated Director Frank Galati (“Grapes of Wrath” and “Ragtime”) brings in a surprisingly suspenseful and – at times – humorous production with solid, brilliant actors.
If you think our legislation is messed up and at times loopy, read the history of the Second Continental Congress. It makes ours look sane.
So come and meet, cantankerous John Adams (John Hickok), brilliant Benjamin Franklin (Andrew Boyer), gifted Thomas Jefferson (Brandon Dahlquist) and all the other brave compatriots that made up the vitality and drama of the time.
Yes, we all know how the play will end but the journey is enjoyable. Perhaps some will realize how fortunate we were to have had these brave, enlightened men rise and reach out for our “Independence.”
Camille Bounds is the Theatre and Arts editor for Sunrise Publications.
Where: A.C.T. Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco
Through: Oct. 6
Ticket Prices: $25-$160
Details: (415) 749-2228 or visit www.act-st.org.
