1776

Sept. 29 - Oct. 22, 2006

A decisive moment in American history came musically to life as the new Wimberley Playhouse opened its doors in September 2006 with the production 1776. The play was written by Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone.

The spirited historical musical followed John Adams of Massachusetts, Ben Franklin of Pennsylvania, Richard Henry Lee and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, and other key figures as they tried to convince their fellow members of the 22nd Continental Congress to vote for independence. The Declaration of Independence was the grand call to the people of a fledgling nation to shake off the shackles of the British monarchy.

The Wimberley Players' production of 1776was directed and choreographed by Lee Coleé-Atnip and produced by Jana White; Donna Williams was Assistant Director. The cast included many well-known performers, including David Bisett as John Adams, LeRoy Nienow as Edward Rutledge, Cary Michaels as Richard Henry Lee and Carole Hoffstad as Abigail Adams. Patrons will also be delighted to see Dan Williams as Dickinson, John Daws as Hopkins, Calvin White as the Secretary to the Congress, Allan Eastwood as McNair, and Carl Galante as Ben Franklin.

The cast totaled 27, including 25 men. The troupe gustily sang ensemble songs that brought the American founding spirit to life.

“All these characters are fascinating,” said Director Coleé-Atnip. “They were passionateabout their country. Yet the founding fathers had traits much like people we all know today. They could be petty, visionary, anti-social, or charming. Even the so-called villains are adorable, wonderful characters.” As playgoers saw, they sometimes even came to blows.

“Authenticity” was the production mantra. The players wore specially created period costumes down to vintage shoe buckles and walking sticks.