1776

Music and Lyrics by Sherman Edwards
Book by Peter Stone

Step into the heat of Philadelphia in 1776 — the Tony Award–winning Broadway musical that brings the debate over American independence to vivid, funny, and surprisingly human life.

Presented by the Deerfield Valley Players at Memorial Hall in Wilmington, Vermont, 1776 follows the Second Continental Congress as John Adams fights (and pleads, and pushes, and occasionally drives everyone a little nuts) to get his fellow delegates to vote for independence and sign what would become the Declaration of Independence. It’s not a pageant, and it’s not a history lecture. It’s a backstage pass to the messy, stubborn, complicated work of building consensus — told with sharp dialogue, unforgettable music, and plenty of personality.

What makes 1776 so compelling is how it balances big stakes with intimate moments: friendships tested, tempers flaring, ideals colliding, and the quiet cost of standing up for something when the room would rather move on. The score is packed with wit and momentum, and the story never forgets that these were real people making impossible choices in real time. If you’ve ever wondered how a nation’s founding could feel both monumental and deeply personal, this show answers that question onstage.

This production is part of Wilmington’s community-wide lead-up to America’s 250th Semi-Quincentennial in 2026 — a chance to gather, reflect, and celebrate the ongoing story of civic life through the lens of live theatre. The Deerfield Valley Players have been creating community theatre in Memorial Hall for decades, and 1776 continues that tradition: local talent, shared experience, and a historic stage at the heart of it all.

Interested in being part of the cast or crew?

Ticket Information

Tickets will be available soon. Register here to be notified when tickets are on sale.

Duration

Approximately 2 hours and 15 mins including a 15 min intermission. As this production is still being developed, duration will be updated closer to the run dates. Please check back here and in your pre-show emails.

Content Guidance

This show is recommended for ages 12 and up. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. Read about our age recommendations here. If you have any questions about content or stage effects, send us an email at friends@friendsofthehallvt.org and we’ll be happy to give you more info.

Ticket Discounts

Friends offers a variety of ways to save on tickets, including Student and Rush discounts. Discounts are limited and are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more about ticket opportunities here.

Casting is subject to change, sometimes with little or no notice. For example, artists may be added, withdrawn or substituted. If casting changes, we will do our best to keep audiences informed via our website and other pre-show communications. Read attendance FAQs and ticketing terms here.

Production Sponsors

Interested in sponsoring our production of 1776? Shoot us an email at development@friendsofthehall.org and we’ll be in touch!