
Photo by Michael DeCristofaro.Ĭonvincing performances were also delivered by both Tom Lucca as the exhausted Congress President John Hancock, and James D. Lyman Hall), Christopher Wynne Duffy (George Read), Peter Saide (Edward Rutledge), Benjamin Howes (John Dickinson), Jake Mills (Joseph Hewes), Kevin Robert Kelly (Judge James Wilson), and Stephen Valenti (Lewis Morris). Andrew Hendrick (Robert Livingston), James D. His eloquent rebuttals of, and heartfelt objections to declaring independence, clearly outline the momentous gravity of Congress’ decision. His sensational performance of the tenebrous “Molasses to Rum” was chill-inducing.īenjamin Howes was splendid as Adams’ main nemesis, John Dickinson. He exudes aristocratic elegance with manner and expression, while delivering an exemplary Southern drawl. Peter Saide’s outstanding portrayal of South Carolina Delegate, Edward Rutledge, was very impressive. Her strong, lovely vocals ring out in “He Plays the Violin.” Adriana Milbrath is charming as Jefferson’s wife, Martha. His quiet strength and communicative facial expressions give silent insight into his character’s complexities. Michael Glavan gives a marvelous performance as the taciturn Thomas Jefferson. His delivery of “The Lees of Old Virginia” was quite moving. Jon Reinhold is also amusing in his role as Richard Henry Lee, the gregarious and confident Virginian. Wills’ beautiful singing was a pleasure to listen to, especially in “Yours, Yours, Yours”.ĭavid Studwell was brilliant as Benjamin Franklin.His impeccable comedic timing adds a lightheartedness to what is, predominantly, a serious plotline. The wonderful chemistry between LaVerdiere and Jennifer Hope Wills, as Abigail Adams, created a touching and intimate portrayal of the Adams’ strong relationship. Adam Mosebach (Charles Thomson), Stephen Valenti (Lewis Morris), Jamie LaVerdiere (John Adams), Tom Lucca (John Hancock), Michael Glavan (Thomas Jefferson), Jon Reinhold (Richard Henry Lee), Benjamin Howes (John Dickinson), and Robert Budnick (Stephen Hopkins). From incredulous and exasperated, to tender and romantic, his believable emotional range was a a great asset to the production.


With his crisp and clear vocals in “Sit Down, John” and “Piddle, Twiddle,” combined with his unflagging enthusiasm and energy, LaVerdiere brings Adams strikingly to life. Jamie LaVerdiere is superb as John Adams. Wonderful singing abounds, and blend together in excellent harmony, notably in “Sit Down, John.” They convincingly depict the frustrations and vexations of their characters, while vividly portraying the sweltering conditions of the Pennsylvanian summer. The entire cast is fantastic, melding together into a believably cohesive unit. This production of 1776 is exceedingly well done.

How can he spur them past their doubt and fear into action? With the help of Thomas Jefferson’s eloquence and Benjamin Franklin’s deviousness and ingenuity, Adams forefronts the movement to secede from Great Britain’s tyranny. For over a year they have avoided any decisive action, and many of the delegates vehemently oppose the entire topic. His colleagues don’t seem to grasp the severity of the situation. Michael Glavan (Thomas Jefferson), David Studwell (Benjamin Franklin), and Jamie LaVerdiere (John Adams). It follows the struggles of John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson in their efforts to convince the rest of the Continental Congress members to vote for independence. With a book by Peter Stone, and music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards, this Tony Award winner for Best Musical is directed by Igor Goldin, with assistance from Trey Compton.ġ776 takes place in Philadelphia over a three month period. This year marks the 240th anniversary of the formation of our country, and what better way to experience a taste of this magnificent history than with the musical 1776 now playing at The John W.
