1776: the Musical

Before they were legends on dollar bills, they were delegates with opinions, egos, and great musical numbers. This spirited retelling of America’s founding puts personality center stage—because independence wasn’t unanimous... it was a hot mess in powdered wigs.

John Adams (Massachusetts)

The relentless revolutionary with a passion for independence—and zero chill. Loud, stubborn, and always pushing Congress to “Vote yes!” on freedom. He's got the vision… just not the popularity.

Benjamin Franklin (Pennsylvania)

Witty, wise, and a bit of a flirt, Franklin brings charm and levity to Congress (and this show). He’s the oldest in the room, but don’t let the spectacles fool you—he’s sharp as ever.

Thomas Jefferson (Virginia)

Soft-spoken, tall, and surprisingly musical. Jefferson is tasked with writing the Declaration of Independence, though he’s a bit distracted… by love. A man of few words, unless he's got a quill in hand.

Abigail Adams

John Adams’ equally strong-willed wife—seen in beautiful letters brought to life. She offers strength, wisdom, and much-needed perspective from back home in Braintree. (Also, she just wants him to send saltpeter.)

Martha Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson’s beloved wife. She lights up the stage with grace and affection in her brief, heartfelt appearance—and reveals Jefferson's not just a writer, but a romantic.

Richard Henry Lee (Virginia)

The overly confident, slightly ridiculous aristocrat who proposes the resolution for independence. Expect big personality, big entrances, and one very catchy solo.

John Dickinson (Pennsylvania)

The voice of loyal opposition. Elegant, conservative, and resistant to the idea of breaking with Britain, Dickinson leads the charge against declaring independence.

Edward Rutledge (South Carolina)

Suave and sharp-tongued, Rutledge delivers one of the show's darkest and most powerful numbers. His opposition to abolishing slavery nearly derails the Declaration.

Roger Sherman & Robert Livingston

Jefferson’s wingmen on the Declaration Committee. Sherman is practical and no-nonsense; Livingston would really rather not be involved.

Caesar Rodney (Delaware)

Though gravely ill, Rodney’s vote is crucial. His determination to ride through the night for independence is one of the show’s most heroic moments.

James Wilson (Pennsylvania)

Mild-mannered and indecisive, Wilson holds the swing vote. He’d prefer not to stand out… but history (and Congress) won’t let him hide forever.

George Read (Delaware), Lewis Morris (New York), and others

Each delegate brings their own flavor to the Continental Congress—some firebrands, some fence-sitters, all part of the miracle that was signing the Declaration of Independence.

It’s the summer of 1776, and the American colonies are on the brink of revolution—but not yet united. Inside the heat-soaked chambers of Philadelphia’s Second Continental Congress, a group of brilliant (and stubborn) men clash over whether to declare independence from Great Britain.

At the center of the storm is John Adams of Massachusetts—passionate, abrasive, and tireless in his pursuit of freedom. But Adams can’t do it alone. He must convince the reluctant delegates to rally behind independence, despite fierce opposition from men like John Dickinson of Pennsylvania, who fear the consequences of breaking away.

Joining Adams are allies like Benjamin Franklin, whose wit and wisdom keep spirits high, and Thomas Jefferson, the quiet Virginian tasked with drafting the Declaration of Independence—though his heart (and pen) are back home with his wife, Martha.

As the debate rages on, tempers flare and compromises are struck. The show doesn't shy away from the tensions of the time—especially regarding the deep divisions over slavery, regional loyalties, and the very meaning of freedom. Amidst all this, the musical delivers humor, heart, and a surprising amount of humanity.

The suspense builds not from battles, but from words—the struggle to find agreement, the urgency of a cause, and the bravery it takes to sign your name to a new nation.

“1776 takes American history and infuses it with humor, humanity, and a remarkable sense of urgency.”
– Playbill

“One of Broadway’s most intelligent and underrated musicals—a witty, thought-provoking portrait of politics in action.”
– The Washington Post

“1776 remains a rare achievement: a musical that’s both intellectually engaging and emotionally rousing.”
– The Guardian

“A stirring and surprisingly suspenseful look at the birth of a nation—not through battles, but through passionate debate and razor-sharp dialogue.”
– The New York Times

This show is recommended for ages 10 and up.