Landless Theatre Company Strikes Back this Weekend with 1776

This weekend only, join Landless Theatre at Frederick's Weinberg Center for something a little different.

1776 dramatizes the days leading up to the signing of our Declaration of Independence, bringing to life founding figures John and AbiGail Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, and many others. Directed by Landless's Melissa Baughman (2015 Helen Hayes Award Outstanding Director nominee), the production concept features a core of professional actors with local elected officials and community leaders in the supporting roles.

Special guest performers include Rick Weldon (former MD Delegate, Vice President of Frederick Chamber of Commerce), Michael O'Connor (Frederick Alderman), Josh Pedersen (Former United Way of Frederick CEO, MD 2-1-1 referral system), and Frederick's Mayor Randy McClement.

Leading the cast are Landless regulars Matt Baughman (Gutenberg! The Musical!), Clay Comer (Evil Dead The Musical), Eric Jones (MetalDrood), Alex Throne (Sweeney Todd), and Artistic Director Andrew Lloyd Baughman (Sweeney Todd).

NOTE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

"At first glance, a production of the classic 1776 might seem a departure from Landless Theatre's heavy metal musicals, Evil Dead blood squirting spectacles, and other pop culture driven vehicles of our mission to cultivate new and diverse audiences for live theatre. Our core philosophy, however, is that each trip to the theatre should be a MOMENTOUS EVENT, and how better to commemorate the 4th of July in this most divisive political year?

As theatre artists respond to and reflect upon our turbulent political climate, such as New York Public Theater's controversial Julius Caesar, we chose 1776 to recall the Founders who disagreed vehemently, yet still found mutual respect to work together toward a common goal for the greater good. These were imperfect men, and their struggle was not always pretty, but they exemplify the American spirit.

Our production is inspired by the 1996 production at DC's Constitution Hall, which featured congress members from both sides of the aisle in supporting guest roles. We hope to bring the same excitement and spirit of patriotic pride to Frederick by featuring several local politicians and community leaders who demonstrate their support for the arts by appearing in our show!"

Sincerely,
Andrew L. Baughman
Producing Artistic Director