BWW Reviews: Insight Theatre Company's Nicely Mounted 1776

It's only fitting that while we're celebrating Independence Day there's a production of the musical 1776 being staged by a local theatre group. After all, it's not has-been bands at local fairs and fireworks displays that we're supposed to be honoring on this particular occasion, but rather the principles which this country was founded upon. And, 1776 is an entertaining and informative show (book by Peter Stone, and music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards) that attempts to set this historical event to music. Although it's often uneven in tone, it's an engaging ride nonetheless, and Insight Theatre Company's current production is a solid interpretation driven by some fine performances.

The story follow John Adams as he tries to get the Continental Congress to accept his resolution to declare America's independence from England, thus removing another jewel from their crown. But, congress is completely divided on the very notion of breaking away from the British Empire, and Adams finds he can only come up with half the votes necessary to pass. It's vital that he be able to convince them that General George Washington's ragtag forces are even capable of taking on such a task. With the help of Ben Franklin and a very young Thomas Jefferson, he attempts to sway the vote in his favor.

Martin Fox is simply outstanding as John Adams, firm in his resolve, and every bit the agitator he's described as. He's harassed in amusing fashion by the rest of congress during "Sit Down, John", but he exacts his revenge with the cutting and true "Piddle, Twiddle and Resolve". Janine Burmeister does fine work as his long-suffering wife, Abigail. As his congressional opposition, Christopher Hickey is quite good as John Dickinson, and he does sharp work leading the conservatives during "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men". Michael Brightman convinces as the spineless James Wilson whose vote always aligns with Dickinson. Tom Murray is playful as Ben Franklin continually interjecting pearls of wisdom into the conversation, and Michael Amoroso is energetic as Richard Henry Lee, who helps Adams to unite the state of Virginia for independence. Peter Meredith is refreshing as the young and gifted Thomas Jefferson, and Taylor Pietz brightens up the stage as his lovely wife, Martha. GP Hunsaker is a strong John Hancock, and Joneal Joplin livens up the proceedings as Stephen Hopkins.

A solid supporting cast includes: Charles Huevelman, Jim Leibricht, Zack Stefaniak, Troy Turnipseed, Ken Haller and Greg Cuellar, among many others deserving of recognition.

Director Maggie Ryan does splendid work staging this show, and the cast performs with considerable aplomb. But, the musical itself is an odd and uneven mix of elements, with the first act heavy on music, and the second act heavy on dialogue. It's also quite long. However, the music direction by Charlie Mueller is well done, Bill Schmeil's scenic design is elegant and effective, Laura Hanson's costumes are handsome, Maureen Berry's lighting neatly accommodates the mood changes, and Zoe Vonder Haar contributes charming choreography.

This nicely realized production of 1776 by Insight Theatre Company continues through July 7, 2013.

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