Photo Flash: Ford Theatre's LIBERTY SMITH

Ford's Theatre presents the world premiere of Liberty Smith, a madcap musical romp through Revolutionary America based on an original story by Marc Madnick and Eric R. Cohen, with music by Michael Weiner, lyrics by Adam Abraham and book by Madnick, Cohen and Abraham.

Directed by Matt August, the production plays March 23 though May 21, 2011. This whimsical take on American history follows an imaginary founding father, Liberty Smith, on an ambitious quest to free the Colonies in hopes of winning a young girl's heart. The production features Geoff Packard in the title role, Kelly Karbacz as Betsy Ross' niece Emily Andrews, Gregory Maheu as George Washington, Christopher Bloch as Benjamin Franklin, Donna Migliaccio as Betsy Ross and Richard Pelzman as Paul Revere. Additional casting includes Matthew A. Anderson, Michael Bunce, Drew Eshelman, James Konicek, Gia Mora, Tracy Lynn Olivera, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Bobby Smith, Lauren Williams and Harry A. Winter.

A childhood friend of George Washington, apprentice to Benjamin Franklin and linked to Paul Revere's remarkable ride, the elusive Liberty Smith weaves his way through familiar tales of a young nation. Rife with melody and blazing with adventure, "Liberty Smith" recalls the lush heyday of the American musical. Experience the birth of America through the eyes of our "forgotten" founding father: Liberty Smith.

"'Liberty Smith' is easily one of the largest productions Ford's has produced with 23 musical numbers, an ensemble cast of 20, and an epic story that transports audiences from Washington's infamous cherry tree incident to the signing of the Declaration of Independence," said Director of Ford's Theatre Paul R. Tetreault. "Director Matt August and the show's creators have worked diligently through workshops and staged readings to develop ‘Liberty Smith' for the Ford's Theatre stage, and we are thrilled to at last present their colorful, dynamic and imagination-filled story this spring in Washington."

"Liberty Smith" is made possible by Lead Sponsor United Technologies Corporation and Sponsors Raytheon Company, Altria Group, Qualcomm Incorporated, Shell Oil Company and the National Fund for New Musicals. Media Sponsor ABC7/NewsChannel 8/TBD.COM provides promotional support throughout the run. Ford's Theatre's 2010-2011 season sponsors are The Home Depot and Chevron.

Photo Credit: T. Charles Erickson

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