Music and Lyrics by Sherman Edwards Book by Peter Stone Based on a Concept by Sherman Edwards
Originally produced in 1969 on the Broadway Stage by Stuart Ostrow
The seminal event in American history
blazes to vivid life in this most unconventional of Broadway hits. It's the
summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence... if only our
founding fathers can agree to do it! "1776" follows John Adams of Massachusetts,
Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, and Richard Henry Lee and Thomas Jefferson of
Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the second Continental
Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by
signing the Declaration of Independence.
"1776" puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the
national icons: proud, frightened, uncertain, irritable, charming, often petty
and ultimately noble figures determined to do the right thing for a fledgling
nation.
Involving a sizeable, largely male ensemble with no chorus, the show features a
striking score by Sherman Edwards, which is modest in its vocal requirements,
and a book by Peter Stone, which is legendary in its craftsmanship. "1776" is a
funny, insightful and compelling drama. Staged 1976