1776 Opens On Lohrey Stage

1776, an unlikely but highly relevant musical, marches into Theatre Memphis on the Lohrey Stage, March 8-31, 2019. The plot tells of a seminal event in American history as the nation is ready to declare independence... if only the founding fathers can agree. 1776 puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the national icons, determined to do the right thing for a fledgling nation. A funny, insightful and compelling drama with a striking score and legendary book.

"1776 reminds us of the compromises, the ideals and passions that came together (and not at all easily) to create this country," says director Cecelia Wingate. "We watch these noble and brave men argue, maneuver, seethe, strike, recoil, and ultimately work together to form a more perfect union." It was important to Wingate to realize, as well, that there is a lot of "noise" that emanates from our current political system ... the whole "I'm right, you're wrong" mentality. She reflects on her approach to heading up this production. "I saw the opportunity to inspire audience members to avail themselves of their liberty of voting and that compromise is never easy, yet necessary." She adds, "What a privilege it is to be able to tell this story."

Theatre Memphis Executive Producer Debbie Litch celebrates this patriotic, musical production that has so much history to support it. "It is always important to show appreciation for our freedom of speech," Litch avows. "Theatre is a great vehicle for that and 1776 is a true declaration of that with wit and honesty ... and inspired elements to move you to action."

www.theatrememphis.org