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Regional Reviews: Washington, D.C. 1776 Also see Susan's review of Jonah
The first thing the audience sees onstage–incorporating elements of Milagros Ponce de Leon's scenic design, Venus Gulbranson's lighting design, and Clint Allen's projections–is an interactive display depicting Philadelphia's Independence Hall, including costumed mannequins and a large image of John Trumbull's famous painting of the signing ceremony. "Tourists" begin to explore the space and gradually take on the historical roles and begin the musical, as they change into closely observed period costumes by Ivania Stack. Jonathan Atkinson commands the stage whenever he appears as John Adams, the "obnoxious and disliked" Massachusetts representative who sees his mission as freeing the colonies from British rule. Interestingly, Salgado draws out the parallels between Adams' loneliness for his wife Abigail (Kanysha Williams) and that of Thomas Jefferson (youthful-looking Jake Loewenthal) for his Martha (Justine "Icy" Moral). These were always present, but this direction and a specific prop make it more concrete. Derrick D. Truby Jr. is a hoot as Benjamin Franklin, nailing both the man's intellect and his earthier side. Wood Van Meter, in for Evan Casey as John Dickinson, looks a little young for the role but succeeds in making the character a genuine foil for Adams. As Edward Rutledge, Joe Mallon goes from pomposity to a chillingly effective "Molasses to Rum." Some of the cleverness of this production is subtle, as when the costume designer gives swaggering Richard Henry Lee (Michael Perrie Jr.) a coat made out of what appears to be a painted landscape. Hunter Ringsmith is a haunting Courier, looking more haggard with each entrance and as he joins Ricky DeVon Hall in "Momma Look Sharp." Clay Ostwald conducts seven other musicians from the keyboard. 1776 runs through May 16, 2026, at Ford's Theatre, 511 Tenth St. NW, Washington DC. For tickets and information, please call 202-347-4833 or visit fords.org. Music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards Cast:
John Hancock, President: Thomas Adrian Simpson |
