Notable figures such as John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin will be presented on stage in a comedic musical to open at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.
The Cardinal Stage Company will debut its first production of the fall season with the musical “1776.”
Labeled “America’s Favorite Musical” by the company’s website, the production of “1776” will last until Sept. 13.
“Randy White selects the full season and selects a theme for the season,” Cardinal Board Member Jan Skinner said. “‘1776’ opens the season with a historical comedic musical starring 23 talented male voices and two beautiful female voices on the Buskirk-Chumley Theater stage.”
Tickets can be purchased online at the company’s website, cardinalstage.org, or in person at its main location at 900 S. Walnut St.
A five-time winner at the 1969 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Book, “1776” focuses on the second Continental Congress and the passionate debates about whether the American colonies should declare independence from King George and Great Britain.
Randy White, who serves as the artistic director for the Cardinal Stage Company production, said he is thrilled to open the season with this production and that he thinks this show will entice and educate audience members.
“Viewers will be surprised with how funny this production is,” White said. “‘1776’ is engaging and humanized, featuring songs that should have familiarity with audience members.”
One Bloomington resident said she is looking forward to this classic production being brought to life on stage.
“This is one of my favorite shows since it is so well written and a great way to learn some history,” said Karen Danvers of Bloomington. “The way the Declaration of Independence signing is presented and performed is so well done. I am really excited to see this adaptation.”
The production features a variety of actors, including regular actors in the company in the main cast such as Mark Goetzinger as Ben Franklin, Rob Johansen as John Dickinson and Mike Price as John Adams. There will be newcomers, as well, including Bloomington High School Choral Director Sarah Miller as Abigail Adams.
“The group is the best I have ever worked,” White said. “They are very delightful to work with given how strong and funny they are. The idea of presenting ‘1776’ this month is that the Cardinal is showing a compelling idea being presented for all to see.”
