Press Release
The Genesis Theater Project, sponsored by Athens First Presbyterian Church, has been bringing witty, meaningful musicals to Athens since 2003, and this summer is no exception. After celebrating its tenth summer production with The Secret Garden last summer, Genesis Theater is proud to present the musical 1776, opening June 17. With music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and book by Peter Stone, this Tony-Award-winning show presents the signing of the Declaration of Independence (and the men and women behind the document) in a much lighter tone. Through song, dance, and mildly irreverent comedy, this historically accurate musical—which was a primary inspiration for the current Broadway hit, Hamilton--brings John Adams (Stuart Baxter-Potter), Benjamin Franklin (Joe Balding), Thomas Jefferson (Tyler Thress), and the rest of the Second Continental Congress to life in way that makes them seem infinitely more human. Usually performed by a cast of 25 men, this production will be the first regional performance of the show with an ethnically-diverse group of men and women portraying the original members of congress. Additional leading roles include Haile Ferrier (Abigail Adams), Alli Purcell (Martha Jefferson), Esteban Vazquez (Edward Rutledge), Matt Johnson (Richard Henry Lee), and Josh Bodnar (John Dickinson). Directed by David Tadlock and Connie Hunter, with choreography by Marissa Dienstag, 1776 will run June 17-19, and June 23-26. Evening performances start at 7:30 PM, and Sunday matinees begin at 2:30 PM. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and students age 13 and over, and $5.00 for children 12 and under. Tickets will be available at the door, and all performances will be at Athens First Presbyterian Church, on the corner of Court Street and Washington in uptown Athens. The show is family-friendly, with a few instances of PG-rated language and subject matter. Information (church office) 740-593-3351. Website: genesistheaterproject.weebly.com