Review: 1776 at Connecticut Repertory Theatre

It is a staple image of American History - one that every American child learns about in school and one that comes to mind for many as the barbecues fire up and fireworks are prepared for Independence Day on the Fourth of July. I am speaking of the iconic image of the brave founding fathers signing the Declaration of Independence. But how often does one think about these men and what they actually might have been like (their quirks, their personalities, their dreams) trying to sort out how to move forward in what had to be a stressful and tumultuous time. This story of the men you know (Franklin, Adams, Jefferson) and some you may not (Rodney, Hall, Dickinson) and the journey they take together to work through conflict and declare their freedom from England comes to brilliant life on stage in the Connecticut Repertory Theatre's (CRT) inaugural production of their Nutmeg Summer Series, 1776.

For those not-familiar with 1776 - the musical, with music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone, focuses on a series of critical weeks in the early summer of 1776 and a Continental Congress trying to decide whether or not to declare independence from the British crown. Led by John Adams (Jamie LaVerdiere), Benjamin Franklin (Richard R. Henry), and Thomas Jefferson (Will Bryant), those for independence constantly clash with the more cool and conservative delegates who wish to stay loyal to England, including John Dickinson (Adam Harrington) of Pennsylvania and Edward Rutledge (Noah Kieserman) of South Carolina. Over the course of the play, the audience gets to know many of the men representing the thirteen colonies and their unique personalities and positions, as well as two of the strong women who stand beside and support their husbands' cause - AbiGail Adams (Gaelen Gilliland) and Martha Jefferson (Paige Smith). And while you might guess the outcome at the end of the play (Hint - they sign the declaration), it is the getting there that creates a fascinating view into this world of almost 250 years ago.

On the whole, this production of 1776 is a brilliant, thought-provoking and entertaining evening of theatre. The story, which may, to some, seem like it could be boring is not at all. It is interesting, lively and quite funny. In his debut as Artistic Director and as the Director of the production Terrance Mann brings a fresh vitality to this shining example of a classic American musical. He draws out the human qualities (good and bad) of each character on stage, creates a sense of urgency and suspense (even though we all know what will happen) and adeptly mines the emotional undertones of the script. The humorous bits are really funny, the conflict is tense, and the longing interactions between Abigail and John Adams are moving. Mr. Mann uses the congressional setting quite well and though, in reality, many of the scenes are set exactly the same, each one seems new and different.

The cast of CRT's 1776 is extremely strong. As the boisterous, stubborn, and determined John Adams, Jamie LaVerdiere is great. He strongly conveys Adams' energy, frustration and laser-like focus on his goal. As Thomas Jefferson, Will Bryant is quiet and collected, but bubbling with the fire and passion that one imagines the great writer and leader would. Richard R. Henry's Benjamin Franklin is the comic center of the bunch and brings a certain lift and frivolity to every line. As John Dickinson, Adam Harrington is stiff, unswerving, and determined - exactly what one would expect from the character. And as AbiGail Adams, Gaelen Gilliland is poised yet passionate and her songs with Mr. LaVerdiere are highlights of the evening, especially in the late number "Compliments".

The technical elements of CRT's production help bring this story to vivid and brilliant life. Tim Brown's scenic designs capture the Continental Congress chamber in perfect detail. Fan Zhang's costumes are equally brilliant, from the pomp of the Deep South to the simpler wares of the northern colonies. The musicians, led by Music Director John Pike are also extremely strong.

1776 is one of those shows that brings a smile on your face and makes you re-consider some long held notions about this iconic moment in American history. And in CRT's current production the story comes to life in such a vibrant and entertaining way. And in today's world, as we deal as a nation with a bitter divide that seems day after day like it might never end, it is refreshing to see leaders such as those on stage in this production come together, air their differences, but, in the end, do what is right and good.

1776 by the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT) runs at the Harriet S. Jorgensen Theatre on the campus of the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT through June 10. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Matinee performances start at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Subscription package options range from $30 to $99. Single tickets prices range from $12 to $55. For additional ticket information or to purchase tickets by phone, call 860.486.2113 . To purchase tickets online, visit www.crt.uconn.edu.

Top Photo Credit - John Adams (Jamie LaVerdiere) leads the Continental Congress's struggle for independence. Photo by Gerry Goodstein

Mid Photo Credit - The company of 1776 at CT Repertory Theatre. Photo by Gerry Goodstein

Bottom Photo Credit - John Dickinson (Adam Harrington) leads a group of 'Cool, Conservative Men'. Photo by Gerry Goodstein

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