The Tony-winning musical 1776 has arrived in Philadelphia, and the city has been taken back to the days of America's founding. The show tells the story of the Second Continental Congress and the heated debates that took place during that crucial time in our history. With songs like “Sit Down, John” and “Momma Look Sharp,” 1776 is sure to entertain – and educate – audiences of all ages. So whether you're a diehard history buff or just looking for a fun night out, make sure to check out 1776 before February 26th.
Watch the story of John Adams, a delegate to the Continental Congress, and his mission to persuade other delegates of the American colonies to sign the Declaration of Independence. The show is co-directed by Jeffrey Page, a University of the Arts alum and features a multicultural cast of artists who identify as female, nonbinary or transgender. This is definitely a different way to look at history especially since the cast members would have never been allowed in the room. I wonder how John Adams feels as a Black Woman.
As the curtains rise, you are immediately transpired to 1776 but not before the show pays homage to where it all began, and then you see the shoes. The costumes in these performances capture the regality of colonial-era America with authentic fabrics, textures, and designs that make it feel like audiences have been transported back in time. From congressmen's uniforms to imperial gowns, each characterization is lavishly detailed to represent both historical accuracy and style. Though their stories are centuries old, these characters come alive in a meaningful way thanks to dazzling stage pieces, costumes, and masterful actors.
1776 features music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone. It is based on a concept by Sherman Edwards. Tony Award-winning director Diane Paulus (Jagged Little Pill, Waitress, Pippin) and MTV Music Video Award-winning choreographer (and Philadelphia Theatre Company resident artist) Jeffrey L. Page [Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls)” video, Memphis in Tokyo; Violet starring Sutton Foster at Roundabout Theatre Company] direct the production.
The 1776 design team includes Tony Award-winning Scenic Designer Scott Pask (Waitress, Finding Neverland, Pippin); Tony Award-nominated Costume Designer Emilio Sosa (The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess); Lighting Designer Jennifer Schriever (In the Body of the World at A.R.T./New York City Center; Fingersmith at A.R.T.); Tony Award-nominated Sound Designer Jonathan Deans (Jagged Little Pill, Waitress, Finding Neverland at A.R.T./Broadway; Pippin on Broadway); and Drama Desk Award-nominated Projection Designer David Bengali (We Live in Cairo at A.R.T., Associate Designer of Witness Uganda at A.R.T./Invisible Thread at Second Stage).
The 1776 music team is comprised of Music Supervisor David Chase (Finding Neverland); Tony Award nominated Orchestrator John Clancy (Fun Home; Mean Girls); Vocal Designer AnnMarie Milazzo (Finding Neverland); Music Consultant and Co-Music Director Nadia DiGiallonardo (Waitress); and Co-Music Director Ryan Cantwell (Pippin).
1776 is part of the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ 2022-23 Broadway season, co-presented by The Shubert Organization. For information on the full season lineup, dates, and venues, visit www.kimmelculturalcampus.org.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased by calling 212-239-6200, visiting www.telecharge.com, or in-person at the Forrest Theatre box office (1114 Walnut Street).
1776
Forrest Theatre
Co-presented by the Kimmel Cultural Campus and The Shubert Organization
February 14 – 26, 2023
