Independence Brilliantly Portrayed
Four Stars
The first act of “1776” at Marriott Theatre merely sets the scene for this Broadway hit that has music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and book by Peter Stone. But then comes Act II.
It’s magnificent. Audiences might wonder what there is to say about the Declaration of Independence, a document written by Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, modified by some of the delegates to the Continental Congress and whose wording we presumably learned in elementary school. But under Nick Bowling’s direction the scene comes alive with terrific acting by a well-chosen cast and Tanji Harper’s choreography.
Marriott’s in-the-round stage is perfect for the scenery design by Regina Garcia. Not least is the period’s costume design by Theresa Ham.
In one corner of the stage, the names of the original 13 colonies are listed as delegations on a board, ready for a vote. They are the members of the Continental Congress who are meeting in Philadelphia at what would become knowns as Independence Hall.
A date calendar is hanging on a post at the opposite corner. Congressional custodian, Andrew McNair, (played by Karl Hamilton) usually brings in liquid refreshment for the delegates and changes the date. It’s countdown time.
As mystery books often say when a situation sounds almost easy – “what can go wrong?” After all, we know the outcome.
Early on, the delegates vote. Coming from different backgrounds and different viewpoints, six are for independence from Great Britain and six appear to be against, with New York politely passing on the vote.
However, even if a majority is obtained, John Dickinson throws out what may become the most important obstacle to overcome. Dickinson says the vote for independence must be unanimous.
Kudos to popular Chicago theater actor Heidi Kettenring who shoulders the vociferous Pennsylvania delegate John Dickinson’s anti-independence stance. She does her usual exceptional acting in a tough role that makes no friends among the Marriott audience.
Wiltz, who is making his debut at Marriott, may not be familiar to its audiences. He has mostly been in regional productions and on Broadway. But after his commanding performance as the “difficult” John Adams, he is likely to be back.
Audiences may remember Richard R. Henry in Marriott’s Man of La Mancha.” As a delegate, he delightfully replicates Ben Franklin’s humor.
Chicago and Regional actor Erik Hamilton returns to Marriott as the brilliant but reluctant writer, Thomas Jefferson, a role he underplays rather than dominates.
Mathew Hommel as South Carolina delegate Edward Rutledge becomes a pivotal vote for independence but will be remembered in this production for his “Molasses to Rum” song rendered in a “Les Mis” operatic style.
A note has to be included on Jay Westbrook as the Courier who quietly, sadly sings “Momma Look sharp.”
Fall 2024 is developing as a full theater season of excellent shows. However, Marriott Theatre’s “1776” should definitely be on that “don’t miss” list.
