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Signal Ensemble Theatre culminates its fifth season, comprised of 20th-century American works, with 1776, the Tony Award-winning musical by Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone. Directed by Ronan Marra with musical direction by Andra Velis Simon and featuring a 26-member award-winning ensemble, the production runs January 25 through March 1, 2008 at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division.
Set during a "hot as hell" summer in Philadelphia, 1776 is the Tony Award-winning musical about the seminal act in American history: the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Sectional differences, pride and fear threaten the Declaration and the fledgling nation. The score features hits such as "Sit Down, John," "He Plays the Violin" and "Momma Look Sharp."
Commenting on the production, director Ronan Marra, the general artistic director of Signal, said "I've been in love with 1776 since I first saw it a decade ago at a regional theater. The libretto is one of my favorite pieces of writing, period. The show is usually described as being 'about the signing of the Declaration of Independence,' but it's truly about how the Declaration almost wasn't adopted. What's amazing about the script is how it actually makes you sweat.
"Doing a musical is a natural progression for us, as the majority of the company are musicians, and, in fitting with our mission, the show offers great roles for actors. Doing a production with this big of a cast gave us the opportunity to bring in a ton of new talent and mix it with company members.
"Despite the size of the cast and working with many new elements, this is a very stripped-down production. A minimalist setting will be used to complement and put the focus on the actors. The goal here is to fill the space with people and sound, putting the event right up in front of the audience."
Christopher Prentice, the producing artistic director of Signal, commented "1776 is extremely salient during this very important election year. In depicting the struggles our Founders endured to create our country, we are reminded that compromise and compassion are essential to the governing process."
Previews are January 25 and 26, 2008 at 8 pm and the production continues through March 1, 2008. Ticket prices are $15-$25 and may be purchased online at www.signalensemble.com or reserved at 773-347-1350.