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Little Theatre gives inspiring performance of musical,
'1776'
By Lorraine Lucciola, Standard-Times
correspondent
 The
Little Theatre of Fall River kicks off its 68th season with the inspiring
and entertaining musical,"1776," the first show in a season of plays
dedicated to the timely theme of American patriotism.
As viewers, we certainly know how
the story ends. After a long, hot, grueling May, June and July of 1776,
our nation's first Continental Congress delivered the Declaration of
Independence.
Yet, for its
creators and signers, the historical magnitude of the document had yet to
be tested and applied. The rightness of their beliefs and convictions, in
the name of precious patriotism, satisfied some of them and rattled
others.
When we think of
the authoring and grooming of the Declaration of Independence, we may
easily envision a room full of mannered politicians, observing protocol
with grace and aplomb.
The
fictionalized vision is all this -- and delightfully less. Oppressive
heat, fatigue, clashing personalities and scathing debates over
independence or allegiance to Britain more accurately define the dynamics
of a Congress, delicately balancing on the precipice of history.
Director Richard Pelletier makes
his striking statement in rich character interpretation and development.
Stage characters are undeniably akin to the real historical personages
they play. These were men, like any others, faced with a far-reaching,
daunting responsibility, despite their aches and pains, hunger and
distress, unshakable faith in their government and their God.
"They (the actors) really want to
portray them (characters) as they were over 200 years ago," notes Mr.
Pelletier. Their portrayals do, indeed, stand as testimonies to humanity
and history-making fact.
Mr. Pelletier and an able cast earn kudos for Little Theatre's production
of "1776." It is the third time the theater group has produced this show
and the third time Mr. Pelletier has directed it.
John M. Costa is natural and
comfortable in the role of John Adams, intense and determined in his drive
for independence. Mr. Costa gives us a down-to-earth, believable
character, intent on achieving a formidable goal.
The comic root of the Congress'
perception of John Adams classifies him, behind his back and to his face,
as "disliked and obnoxious," making for scattered comic relief. As Adams,
Mr. Costa rides the tide of sarcasm and retains the respect of his
colleagues.
Adams' stage
foil is Dr. Benjamin Franklin, played by Tony Ferreira. The kindly
relationship between Adams and Franklin is nicely evident, with Franklin
offering wisdom and advice to his younger colleague.
In fact, the entire ensemble brings
a sense of unity and camaraderie to this assemblage of congressmen. They
are the 1776 equivalent to good-old-boys or locker-room buddies. In
dialogue and song, the common denominator among them is their quest for
freedom and justice.
Brian
McCann as Richard Henry Lee will reduce you to howling laughter. Mr.
McCann is characteristically outrageous as the fast talking, quick
strutting Mr. Lee of Virginia --and don't you forget it! He is the
consummate performer, well-timed and thoroughly professional.
The obtuse and countering quality
of John Dickinson is impeccably delivered by David R. Mello. Dickinson is
the most vehement in his opposition to independence. Mr. Mello is
precisely balanced in his slow but steady attacks against John Adams. It
is a well prepared and exciting performance.
Neil Ferreira delivers a sensitive
portrayal of a young Thomas Jefferson, unsure and unwilling to chart the
course of government for generations to come. Without his young bride
(Christine Pelletier), Jefferson appears even more useless.
Ms. Pelletier lends a refreshing
sparkle to the show in song and believability. If Martha Jefferson lived
today, she would be the faithful friend and devoted wife, welcoming each
day with warmth and sincerity.
Abigail Adams is given lovely,
practical life by Dawn Boucher. She is a true compliment to her husband;
each harboring a bit of impatience, yet ever conscious of the love and
respect they share.
Bob
Houde, as Edward Rutledge, is the listener and observer of this Congress.
He will knock you out with his charged rendition of the tune, "Molasses to
Rum."
Each performer
captures a personal moment in this stellar production, featuring Paul E.
Petit (John Hancock); Roger S. Belanger (Dr. Josiah Bartlett); Frank B.
Hadley (Stephen Hopkins); Frank Noble (Roger Sherman); Edward Cunha (Lewis
Morris); Jay Burke (Robert Livingston); Chris Chambers (Dr. Kyman Hall);
Michial Lewis (James Wilson); John W. Cummings (Caesar Rodney); Rod Alan
Lopez (Col. Thomas McKean); Ron Robinson (George Read); Roger Fournier
(Samuel Chase); Clement Romano (Joseph Hewes); Terry LeVasseur (Rev.
Jonathan Witherspoon); Al Deston (Charles Thompson); John J. Nunes (Andrew
McNair); Jason Cabral (A Leather Apron); Mark Oien (Courier) and Fernando
Goulart (A Painter).
Musical direction is by Bobby Perry, choreography by Janice MacDonald, and
outstanding costumes are by Cindy Loria and Cheryl Field. Musical score
and lyrics are by Sherman Edwards; book by Peter Stone. Musical selections
include "For God's Sake, John, Sit Down"; "The Lees of Old Virginia";
"Momma Look Sharp", "Molasses to Rum" and others.
"1776," presented by the Little
Theatre of Fall River, continues this evening at 8 p.m. and tomorrow with
a 2 p.m. matinee. All performances are at Bristol Community College's
Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River. Reserved
tickets are $15, with discounts available for seniors, students and
groups. For reservations and information call (508) 675-1852. Future shows
in the season include "The Miss Firecracker Contest," "George M," and
"Pump Boys and Dinettes."
This story appeared on Page C5 of The
Standard-Times on October 19, 2002.
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