All remaining shows of 1776 are SOLD OUT!

America’s prize winning musical.  Celebrating America turning 250 with the founding fathers who come alive in 1776 – this classic, award-winning Broadway musical. Join John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson as they fight for independence against a deadlocked Continental Congress in a retelling filled with humor, romance, pathos, and nail-biting tension. It’s revolutionary!

Ticket prices for 1776 and Come From Away are $65 adult; $60 senior; $25 for students of all ages (plus fee) and are available by calling 860.767.7318 or click here to purchase online.

Please do not buy tickets from third party sites such as gotickets.com, ticketsales.com or buytickets.com. These third party sellers are changing double the price of tickets sold by Ivoryton Playhouse and we cannot refund tickets purchased from these sites.

When purchasing online, please make sure you choose the correct ticket price in the drop down list.  Options are Adult, Senior or Student.

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DID YOU KNOW?  Ivoryton Playhouse offers discounted tickets on Thursday nights!  On Thursday nights at 6:00pm, tickets for that night’s 7:30pm performance can be purchased for only $30.  Limit four tickets per person.  Tickets available at the box office only, for that performance only.  Subject to availability. It is a mission of Ivoryton Playhouse to bring affordable, professional, high quality theatre experiences to our community.

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Mark Aldrich* (John Adams) is thrilled to make his first appearance at Ivoryton Playhouse.  Broadway- Newsies, My Fair Lady,  Ragtime. Other NY credits include Irish Repertory, City Center’s Encores, Carnegie Hall, and the York Theatre. Numerous regional credits include Fulton Theatre, Kennedy Center, Actors Theatre of Louisville, North Shore, Pioneer Theatre, Maine State, and Arena Stage. Film/TV appearances include Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Gotham, SVU, Madame Secretary, The Americans, Bull, FBI: Most Wanted, Gods and Generals, PBS Great Performances, and Newsies Live. He is the author of five novels. The fantasy series The Peripherals and the latest, Shallow Water, Deep Lies, a mystery set in NC’s Outer Banks. Thanks to his family for the endless support and encouragement, particularly his wife Jennifer and daughter Stephania.

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John C. Baker* (Andrew McNair) is delighted to be returning to the Ivoryton Playhouse stage, where he made his professional debut, (many years ago) in Godspell.  John has appeared recently in I’m Connecticut (Mark Twain, Canada) Incident at our Lady of Perpetual Help (Mike, Fr. Lovett, Betty) at the Majestic Theatre in West Springfield, Elf (Santa/Greenway) at the Mill Mountain theatre in Roanoke, VA and The Secret Garden (Ben) at ACT of CT in Ridgefield.  He has toured with The Sound of Music and 42nd Street. Other favorite roles, include Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye), Spamalot (Arthur), Show Boat (Captain Andy), Pirates of Penzance (Samuel), The Rainmaker (File), Cats (Old Deuteronomy), Crazy For You (Everett), Annie Get Your Gun (Charlie), Barefoot in the Park (Victor Velasco) and many, many more. John is a prolific visual artist, propsmaster, and teaching artist. He works regularly with school drama programs, inspiring our young theatre community!  SOCIALS: JohnBakerArts.com. “Safe Home!”

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Michael Barra* (Col. Thomas McKean) is thrilled to be back at Ivoryton Playhouse where he made his professional stage debut over 20 years ago in The Comedy Of Errors. Other Ivoryton productions include I’m Connecticut, Jersey Boys, Hairspray, God Bless Us Everyone, Wait Until Dark, and The Mystery Of Edwin Drood. Theater Credits: A Bronx Tale The Musical (Broadway/National Tour), Man Of La Mancha (National Tour), Wait Until Dark (Dorset Theatre Festival), Jersey Boys (Weston Playhouse), The Foreigner (Bristol Riverside Theater), Something Rotten (Franklin Performing Arts Company).  Film/TV –  The Greatest Showman, The Amazing Spider-Man, Gotham, Blue Bloods, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Law & Order: SVU, FBI Most Wanted. Michael can be seen in the upcoming film Red Ink. One of Michael’s proudest achievements is being an answer on his favorite TV show, JEOPARDY! Thanks to my Mom, Dad, and sister BreAnna for their constant love and support. Manager: CLA Partners – Cyd LeVin & Harold Lewter. 

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Tommy Betz (Courier) is thrilled to spend another summer in CT making his Ivoryton debut! National Tour: Hairspray, The Sound of Music. Regional: Goodspeed, Ogunquit, Walnut Street, Maine State, North Shore, Fulton, Engeman, Forestburgh, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Fireside. Special thanks to Ben, Jacqueline, Kenn, and the entire Ivoryton team for this opportunity. Endless gratitude to my family for their undying love and support 🙂 SOCIALS: @tommyfbetz

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Cory Candelet (Lewis Morris, Dickinson u/s) is so incredibly excited to be returning to the Ivoryton stage! His Ivoryton credits include Joseph….Dreamcoat, Saturday Night Fever, Grease, A Chorus Line, Mystic Pizza, Escape to Margaritaville, The Fantasticks (CT Critics Circle Award), and several Christmas shows. He has performed Off-Broadway, on tours, and in regional theaters around the country. When not on stage, Cory coaches Track & Field at Stonington High School. Life is short, do what makes you happy. Huge thank yous to mom and dad! SOCIALS:  @ccandelet

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Michael Cartwright (Samuel Chase, Franklin u/s) is thrilled to be returning to the stage at the Ivoryton Playhouse, where he previously appeared in 1776 (2001), Damn Yankees, Anything Goes, The Mikado, Follies, Big River, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and Oliver! Regional credits include performances with Goodspeed Musicals, Delaware Theatre Company, OperaDelaware (including the world premiere of The Phantom Tollbooth), and Arden Theatre Company, as well as numerous theater groups throughout Connecticut and Delaware. Favorite roles include Shrek in Shrek the Musical, Max Bialystock in The Producers, and Javert in Les Misérables. Mike would like to thank his wife, Lori, for her love and support. Together they produce the Connecticut Yuletide Carolers, Victorian-costumed a cappella quartets performing holiday music throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. The group has also appeared in a Big Y commercial and several Hallmark Channel Christmas movies.

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Ben Clouse (Dr. Josiah Bartlett, Thompson & Courier u/s)  is a cross-trained vocalist who recently graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre Performance. He studied contemporary musical theatre, legit musical theatre, and classical singing styles.​ In his time at USM, Ben played Guido Contini (Nine), Barry Glickman (The Prom), and Caldwell B. Caldwell (Urinetown). Ben also performed as the Giant in Jack and the Beanstalk at Maine State Music Theatre as a part of their TYA series. In 2025, Ben was featured in various productions across the state of Connecticut. Most notably, he played: Lead Storm Trooper (The Producers) and Laurie (Little Women the Musical).

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Sawyer Coffin* (Robert Livingston, Rutledge u/s)is overjoyed to be making his Ivoryton Playhouse debut in 1776! Growing up on Long Island and attending Purchase College, Sawyer is a lifelong New Yorker. Previous credits include: Barnum (Chester Lyman) at The REV, The Office! (Dwight & Others) at the Theatre Center and Spamalot (Lancelot) at Woodstock Playhouse. Sawyer also just made his regional directorial debut with the opening of Godspell at Timber Lake Playhouse! Off the stage, Sawyer is a chess enthusiast and youth educator across NYC. Shoutout to Mom. Rest in Peace Uncle Doug. Mark 4:39.

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Bruce Connelly* (Benjamin Franklin) has performed in Burlesque, Vaudeville, Legitimate Theatre, TV and Movies and is now a published author. “Harvey Duckman Presents”, a British anthology of SciFi, Horror and Fantasy stories has just published his 17th short story, one of which, “The Terror of the Seas”, he rewrote for radio, winning the “Best Audio Program” Award last year by the Foundation for the Alliance of Community Radio. On stage,  Bruce has played J.M. Barrie, P.T. Barnum, Max Bialystock, Max Prince, Paddy Bell, Felix Unger, Pseudolus, Willie Clark, Sheridan Whiteside, Uncle Vanya, Murray Burns, Dr. Einstein, Dr.John Watson, Andrew Wyke, Finan McLonergan, Harold Hill, Guildenstern, Trinculo, Bottom, Puck, Feste, Scapino, Roger Sherman, Snoopy, Barkley, Barney Cashman, the Stage Manager, the Man Going Back, the Reverend Crisparkle, the Reverend Mother, the Mule of La Mancha, eight roles in “The Matchmaker”, ten roles in “Greater Tuna”, the Devil, Adam, Jesus, and the man who played God, George Burns.

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Christopher Conte (George Read, Hall u/s) is thrilled to be at the Ivoryton Playhouse! Recent credits: The Mad Ones (Adam), A Year With Frog and Toad (Toad), Reject Me, Already (Rotating Cast Member), You’re a Goodman, Charlie Brown (Swing). Sacred Heart University MT. Endlessly grateful to his family and friends. SOCIALS:  @christopher.conte

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Galen Donovan (Joseph Hewes, Lee u/s) is so excited to be back on stage at Ivoryton Playhouse! Galen was seen here last year in Joseph….Dreamcoat and in Escape to Margaritaville.  He is thrilled to be returning to the Playhouse stage for 1776.  Select regional credits include: Escape To Margaritaville (Ensemble, Tully U/S) Ivoryton Playhouse, ONCE (Andrej, Guy U/S) The Wilbury Group, Spring Awakening (Melchior) The CT Theatre Company, Spring Awakening (Ernst) Madison Lyric Stage, The Addams Family (Lucas) Bradley Playhouse, and RENT (Angel) White Rabbit Theatre. Huge thanks to the Ivoryton family for welcoming Galen back for another great run! And all his love to his parents, his lovely girlfriend Sydney, and wonderful friends for their fierce support.

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Andrew Fehrenbacher* (Thomas Jefferson) is a former eleven-year-old history buff who would have been THRILLED to be in a musical set during the revolutionary war. He’s now a significantly older version of that kid, but he’s still just as thrilled. National/international tour: Lincoln Center’s My Fair Lady (Higgins U/S), The Sound of Music (Captain von Trapp U/S). Regional: Utah Shakespeare Festival, The Rev, Forestburgh Playhouse, New Stage Theatre, Timberlake Playhouse, Surflight Theatre, American Theatre Group, and more.  Favorite regional credits include: Ragtime (Father), My Fair Lady (Higgins), Guys and Dolls (Sky), Next to Normal (Dan), Bonnie and Clyde (Ted), Clue (Mr. Boddy), The Few (Bryan), Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), The Sound of Music (Captain von Trapp) and more. Gratitude to the entire Ivoryton team, Take3Talent, and Dr. Perna. Love to Mary. Thank you for supporting live theatre!

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Joey Herr* (Richard Henry Lee) is a NYC based actor, singer, and musician. After graduating from The University of Central Florida, Joey spent six years performing for companies such as Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, traveling to over 45 countries. He has also portrayed the iconic Gaston in Beauty and the Beast Live! at Walt Disney World Orlando. In addition to his work in theatre, Joey also releases original music, which can be found on any music streaming service. He is thrilled to be making his Ivoryton debut in 1776! Much love to Madii, his friends, and family for their support.
SOCIALS:  Instagram: @joeyedwardherr and Tiktok: @joeyherr

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Joshua Steele Kelly (Roger Sherman, Hancock u/s) is thrilled to make his debut at Ivoryton Playhouse, representing his home state in his favorite musical of all time. Past credits include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Mitch Mahoney), A Few Good Men (Sam), and Company (Paul) at Chestnut Street Playhouse and Hello, Dolly! (Cornelius Hackl) and Little Women: the Musical (Professor Bhaer) at Niantic Bay Playhouse. Outside theatre, Josh is the CEO of TVCCA and is active in politics; follow Josh and learn more at joshuasteelekelly.com. He is grateful to the Ivoryton community for welcoming him and to his family who brought him up on the musical 1776 from a very young age. Independence is worth fighting for!

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Emelie Latzer* (Martha Jefferson) is thrilled to be making her Ivoryton debut and honored to be part of this production of 1776 as we celebrate America’s 250th! National Tour: Fiddler on the Roof. International Tour: Ariel in The Little Mermaid (Disney on Classic). Regional: Dawn in Waitress (Theatre By The Sea), Glinda in The Wizard of Oz (Summer Theatre of New Canaan). Recording: Disney on Classic Live (streaming on Apple Music). Education: LaGuardia Arts; Bachelor of Music from NYU. Endless thanks to the Ivoryton staff and creative team, her reps at DDO, and much love to her family—Mom, Dad, and her cats, Lolly & Mitzi. Emelie hopes to take up the violin at the conclusion of the run!
SOCIALS:  @emelielatzer | emelielatzer.com

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Kenneth Linsley* (John Hancock) is excited to be making his debut at Ivoryton Playhouse. New York City credits include the American Theatre of Actors, the Players Theatre and the Off-Broadway production of Brunch: The Musical (Bremont) at the Chernuchin Theatre.  Some favorite regional credits are Evita (Juan Peron) at Theatre by the Sea, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat (Simeon) at STONC/New Canaan, CT, Ragtime (Father) at Bucks County Playhouse, and The Fantasticks (El Gallo) at Pocono Playhouse. He has also toured nationally with Chamber Theatre with such classics as The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and The Monkey’s Paw. He was recently seen in concert as Emile de Becque in South Pacific with the Fidelity Theatricals at Don’t Tell Mama in NYC. Training/Education: HB Studios (NYC), AMDA (NYC); University of Texas at Austin. SOCIALS:  @klinsley

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Kenneth Robert Marlo* (Rev. Jonathan Witherspoon, Rutledge u/s) is ecstatic to return to Ivoryton after his debut in the season opening comedy I’m Connecticut! He has appeared Off Broadway in the acclaimed play Dementia Americana as well as across the country in tours of The Little Prince, The Bourgeois Gentleman, and The Miser. On screen he helps lead the upcoming indie horror feature Killer of the Haunt and the emotional short films She Rides The Ghostbike, See Her, and Toska. Also an accomplished Mentalist, Kenneth dazzles audiences by reading minds and finding impossible connections up close and in his solo show The Thread. These skills also brought him the honor of working closely with UK legend Derren Brown on his Broadway debut, Secret in 2019.  SOCIALS:  Instagram via @krobertmarlo or find updates and info at KennethRobertMarlo.com.

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Kelly McCormick* (Abigal Adams) Ivoryton Playhouse debut! Broadway: Carousel. Broadway National Tours: Girl from the North Country; Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Truly Scrumptious); Les Misérables; and The Sound of Music. Off-Broadway: The Extraordinary Ordinary; Her Song. Select roles: Mary in Mary Poppins, Sacramento Music Circus; Sarah Brown in Guys & Dolls, North Shore Music Theatre; Frances in Hello! My Baby, Goodspeed; Fantine in Les Misérables & Irene Molly in Hello, Dolly, Pioneer Theatre Company; Heidi in [title of show] & Babe in The Pajama Game, Arizona Theatre Company; Martha Jefferson in 1776, Pittsburgh CLO; Linda in Pal Joey, Prince Music Theater; Children of Eden, Ford’s Theatre. TV: Law & Order: SVU; Person of Interest; and What Angels Fear. Soloist with the Omaha & Cincinnati Symphony Orchestras. Alumna, Michigan State University & the Cincinnati Conservatory (CCM). Deep gratitude to Kenn, Ben, Jacqui, and the entire Ivoryton team. For JCB.

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Dino Nicandros* (Edward Rutledge) is honored to be making his Ivoryton Playhouse debut. Off-Broadway: The Jury (Officer Cousins, Theatre Now). International: Peter Pan (Smee, McCoy/Rigby Entertainment), Saudi Arabia. Select regional credits: The Secret Garden (Archibald, 3-D Theatricals), The Cher Show (Sonny, Regional Premiere, Ogunquit Playhouse), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Wonka, Arrow Rock Lyceum), Grand Hotel (Otto, The Rev), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (singing voice of Quasimodo, La Mirada), Young Frankenstein (Frederick, 3-D Theatricals), 9 to 5 (Joe, Sacramento Music Circus). Workshop: Age of Power (Tesla), composed by Tony-winner Mark Hollmann (Urinetown). Film: The Infiltrators (Sundance Film Festival), Bar Fight!. Love to Veronica, my family, the team at Ivoryton Playhouse, and my esteemed colleagues in the Continental Congress.  SOCIALS:   www.dnicandros.com

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William Pazdziora* (Charles Thompson, Jefferson u/s) is thrilled to be back for his third season at Ivoryton Playhouse, last seen in Mystic Pizza & Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Tour: Shrek the Musical World Tour (Wolf/Thelonious/Farquaad u/s). Regional: Evita (PA Shakespeare Festival), Jesus Christ Superstar (Bristol Riverside), Rock of Ages (Eagle Theatre), Spamalot (Media Theatre), Shrek, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (PEG). When not performing, William teaches voice in NYC and loves spending time with his wife, Rebecca, and their baby girls, Magnolia and Scarlett!  SOCIALS: @william.pazdziora

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Elio Perez (Caesar Rodney/Swing – multiple delegates ) is a recent graduate from Western Connecticut State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts. He is from Deep River, CT. His past credits include Sunday in the Park with George (Georges/George), The Mound Builders (Chad Jasker), Next To Normal (Gabe), Three Sisters (Vershinin), Allegro (U/S Charlie), Big Love (Constantine), and the one-act plays Halfway Down (U/S Jumper and Stranger) and The Proposal (William Ainsworth). Other credits include Heaven Can Wait (Messenger 3081) at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, and Quentin: A Roosevelt Musical (Hamilton Coolidge) at The Press Box Theater.

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Jason Pintar* (Dr. Lyman Hall) is elated to be back at Ivoryton Playhouse where he played many characters My Fair Lady last season. He recently appeared as Lazar Wolf, the butcher, (u/s Tevye) in Asolo Repertory Theatre’s acclaimed actor/musician production of Fiddler on the Roof, playing percussion and trumpet. International Tour: Admiral von Schreiber (u/s Cpt. von Trapp) in Broadway International’s The Sound of Music (Jack O’Brien, dir.) in Mainland China and Hong Kong. NY Stage: Quentin in Tennessee Williams’ Small Craft Warnings (Regeneration Theatre) The Underpants Godot (Secret Theatre, NYIT Award Nom.). Regional Stage: Man 1 in Lucky Stiff, Cal in Waitress, Harry Hunter (u/s Howard Beale) in Network (Florida Studio Theatre), Norm Waxman in Jersey Boys (The Gateway), Reverend Chasuble in The Importance of Being Earnest (USI Rep), Father Dupin (u/s Frollo) in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (The Rev). TV: Law & Order: SVU (NBC).  SOCIALS:  jasonpintar.com

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Josh Powell* (John Dickerson) is thrilled to return to Ivoryton having previously appeared in Mystic Pizza, My Way, A Christmas Carol, Love Quest, Burt & Me, and On Golden Pond. He’s performed throughout CT including with Goodspeed (City of Angels), Connecticut Lyric Opera (The Merry Widow), Music Theater of CT (Fox on the Fairway and White Christmas) and Seven Angels (Grumpy Old Men). Josh has headlined with numerous opera companies including El Paso Opera, Utah Festival Opera, and Light Opera Oklahoma. Josh’s New York credits include Assassins (Booth), The Cradle Will Rock (Larry Foreman), Upside Down (Lou Smalls), and A Little Night Music (Fredrik). He’s also appeared with Merry-Go-Round (9 to 5), Pittsburgh Public (The Fantasticks), Penguin Rep (Virtuous Life of Joseph Andrews, Syncopation, and Art), and 42nd Street Moon (The Golden Apple). Josh is the proud recipient of both a San Francisco Critics Circle Award and a Dramalogue Award. SOCIALS:  @JustJoshPowell

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Alex Stone (James Wilson, McKean u/s) is positively pumped to participate in this peerless production! NAT’L TOUR: Jesus Christ Superstar (Pilate), Fiddler of the Roof; REGIONAL: Signature Theatre: Fiddler on the Roof (Fyedka), The Bridges of Madison County; Constellation Theatre: The Last Five Years; Summer Lyric Tulane: JCS (Judas), Newsies (Jack Kelly); Clinton Area Showboat: Dial M for Murder, The 39 Steps; CCM MT’19. Endless love to my family, my dog Reno, Avalon Artists Group, and Randa, always. SOCIALS:  www.alexanderstone.net @justalexstone

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Rebecca Tobin (Leather Apron, Martha u/s) is thrilled to be making her Ivoryton Playhouse debut! Rebecca grew up in Connectcut and recently graduated from Emerson College with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Previous credits: Spring Awakening (Wendla) , Bright Star (Lucy/Ensemble), Sweet Charity (Ensemble/ Charity u.s), Head Over Heels (Ensemble/ Philoclea u.s), Footloose (Ariel), and Mystic Pizza (Daisy). She is incredibly grateful for the endless support of her loved ones.  SOCIALS: Instagram beccat7279 Website https://www.rebeccatobin.com/

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Allan Zeller* is overjoyed to make his debut at Ivoryton Playhouse. Allan was last seen performing the roles of Ludwig van Beethoven in the play Frank & Ludvig for the Theatre Artists Workshop in their annual Festival of New Works. Prior to that, Allan was seen at the Greenwich Theatre Co. in “Bushwacked!” in Honor of Playwright Rosemary Foley. Allan frequently works opposite his wife Kimberly Squires in their two-person show “Zeller & Squires”, most recently at the Legacy Theatre in Branford CT. Some other Theatres include: The Sacramento Theatre Co., CitiArts Theatre, Theatre Artists of Marin, Roger Rocha’s Music Hall, 2^nd Space Theatre, Theatre Works, Music Theatre of CT., The Schoolhouse Theatre, Penguin Rep., Stray Kats Theatre, and the Players Theatre (NYC). Allan is a longtime member and former President of the Theatre Artists Workshop. He is a member of SAG/AFTRA and Actors’ Equity. Allan graduated from UC Davis with an MFA in acting and from Fresno State University with a BA in Theatre.

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Adelina Peretti* (Female Swing)is thrilled to be at Ivoryton Playhouse this summer. She holds a master’s degree in Vocal Performance (Musical Theater) from NYU, and a bachelor’s in voice from Wheaton Conservatory of Music. Past credits include Maria (The Sound of Music), Marian (The Music Man in Concert), Edna (Bright Star), and Cherubino (The Marriage of Figaro). SOCIALS:  instagram @addieperetti

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Nathan Szymanski (Male Swing) is super excited to be back performing at the Ivoryton Playhouse! He is Ivoryton born and raised, and graduated from Shenandoah Conservatory with an Acting BFA. Recent credits: I’m Connecticut (ensemble), Dogfight (Boland), Sideshow (Geek and others), Clue (Professor Plum), and Matilda the Musical (Headmistress Trunchbull). Endless gratitude for the unwavering love and support from my family and friends! 
SOCIALS: Instagram @szy__nathan

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CREATIVE TEAM:

Director:  Kenn McLaughlin

Stage Manager:  James Joseph Clark*  Ivoryton Playhouse Resident Stage Manager.  Credits include Long Wharf Theatre, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Foote Summer Theater, Synapse Theatre Ensemble, Columbia University, Roebling and Driggs Productions, Yale Opera, The New York Financial Writers’ Association, New Haven Theater Company, Sacred Heart Academy, New Haven Ballet, Fairfield University and the Chancel Opera Company. As lead producer for Brief Cameo Productions, he has directed Ragtime: In Concert, Songs from the Elephant’s Trunk (in collaboration with Ivoryton Playhouse), The Drowsy Chaperone: In Concert, and Side Show: In Concert. All my love to Jeremy, for putting up with a theater maker’s crazy life.

Assistant Stage Manager:  Alison Savino* is excited to be joining the team at Ivoryton Playhouse! During the academic year Alison serves as the Production Stage Manager for Connecticut Repertory Theatre and as Visiting Assistant Professor in Stage Management for UConn Dramatic Arts. Additional notable credits and venues include the Broadway production of Ain’t No Mo’ with Juniper Street Productions, Columbia University, New York Theatre Workshop, The Argyle Theatre, Opera North, Two River Theater, Joco Cruise and Heredia Vision. Special thanks to Daniel for the unconditional love and support.

Choreographer:  Robert Mintz

Music Director:  Amy Jones

Scenic Designer:  Starlet Jacobs

Lighting Designer:  Jessica Drayton

Sound Designer:  Rhian Franchebois

Costume Designer:  Heidi Hanson

Costume Assistant:  Sean Spina

Wig Designer:  Alexina Cristante

Props Master:  Kat Schorn

Audio Engineer:  Brian Salvia

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MUSICIANS:

Jill Brunelle (Keys 1 / Conductor)

Phoebe Suzuki (Violin)

Dakota Singerline (Drums)

Michael Loveland (Oboe, English Horn)

Jaime Thorne (Horn, Trumpet)

Mark Gehret (Bass)

Rick Sadlon (Flute, Clarinet)

Erin Vivero (Flute, Clarinet)

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* member of Actors Equity

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A Note from the Director…

I confess, I did not know much about the musical 1776 having dismissed it as sentimental clap-trap without ever engaging the piece. I suspect this unfounded bias stems from my personal beef that 1776 replaced the ever-golden chestnut, Yankee Doodle Dandy as my parents favorite July fourth film – for me, it wasn’t the holiday without Jimmy Cagney! I was therefore hesitant when Ben Hope called to inquire if I would be interested in directing the show. I quickly found a copy of the script and score and soon thereafter streamed the original film. I now confess, I have been quite the fool; 1776 is a masterpiece.

Written by composer – and former high school teacher – Sherman Edwards and accomplished theater writer Peter Stone, the show premiered in 1969 and won the Tony Award for best Musical beating out another mega-classic, Hair, for top honors. While one might easily assume that 1776 was the less radical of the two plays, I would argue that it was the more radical. It is in fact a radical play in the modern moment.

The story follows the irascible John Adams building a case for American independence while bedeviled by the antipathy and inertia of the Second Continental Congress. We all know how the story ends but what is less known is how improvised, compromised and perilous the journey to the declaration truly was. Thirteen colonies, each with unique populations, needs, and histories gathering (Congress means “To Gather”) for the first time to determine a path forward in the face of growing authoritarian oppression. Little that we know today as our government was certain – or for that matter – even considered in those hot summer days. At the start of the Second Continental Congress, most delegates believed in discreet responses to effect reconciliation with Britain. But, as time wore on and the oppression grew, a vision began to emerge. The drama of 1776 centers around the struggle, somewhat improvised, always dramatic, of disparate men learning to stand as one against the failing British King.

The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in world history created by men who fell far short of manifesting the aspirations they recorded. The greatest gift that 1776 gives us is to make these men deeply human. They are brilliant, visionary, courageous, determined, vulnerable and witty. They are flawed, willful, arrogant, short-sighted, racist, classist and sexist. Far from ignoring the moral failings of America’s founders, Stone and Edwards reveal – and I dare say, exploit – the cruel paradox of visionary men declaring freedom while upholding human enslavement. Talk about radical, Hair doesn’t even come close.

Powerful debates on race, the threat of civil rebellion, the leverage of popular media, a megalomaniacal leader, economic uncertainty, unpopular war, and fear of change – this is the story of 1776.

After all these years, I now understand why my parents sent George M. Cohan packing.  July 4th is much more complex than we think.

Welcome to the theatre.

Kenn McLaughlin
Director, 1776

This year our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Visit historic Essex, Centerbrook and Ivoryton during this special year to stay, play and enjoy a show at Ivoryton Playhouse!  Here are just a few of the events you can enjoy in the three villages of Essex. 

Essex 250 Gala:  The town of Essex presents a night that honors where we’ve been—and where we’re going.  The Essex 250 Gala will be held April 18th from 7–10 PM at the historic Essex Steam Train.  It will be an event to mark a celebration of America at 250 with dancing, music, and community spirit – an evening rooted in history and brought to life by Essex!  www.essexct.com

The Spirit of 1776: Stay & Play:  Ivoryton Playhouse is proud to partner with The Griswold Inn to offer The Spirit of 1776: Stay & Play package. Located just two miles from the Playhouse in the heart of Essex Village, the historic inn—celebrating its 250th birthday alongside our nation—provides the perfect setting for a memorable theatrical getaway steeped in New England tradition.

This special package includes two preferred-seating tickets to 1776, an overnight stay at The Griswold Inn, continental breakfast for two, and a commemorative keepsake. Packages are available for select performances from June 25 through July 26, 2026, with weekday overnight stays starting at $350 and Friday or Saturday stays at $385. For reservations or additional information, please visit griswoldinn.com or call the Inn at 860.767.1776.

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Ivoryton Village Annual 4th of July Family Parade and Patriotic Presentation:  Saturday, July 4th – parade kicks off at 10am. 

Ivoryton Village invites you to join Annual 4th of July Family Parade and Patriotic Presentation, celebrating our nation’s independence. Gather your family, neighbors, groups of any kind and decorate your bike, scooter, wagon, tractor, truck or antique car. Everyone is welcome to join the fun!    www.ivorytonalliance.org

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Essex Historical Society invites you to join the America 250 celebrations, with programs that highlight lesser-known stories and explore all facets of American history and culture, from the “Women of ’76” presentation and reenactor encampments at Pratt House to historic walking tours and seasonal arts events. Our featured event is EHS’s American Crafts and Trades weekend at Pratt House June 27-28, celebrating skills used by early settlers of Essex and how historical techniques are still used today. Learn more and see the full schedule of events, including book clubs, lectures, and family-friendly programs, at essexhistory.org/events.

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Ivoryton Playhouse Presents 1776, Starring Mark Aldrich
The Tony Award-winning Musical Begins Performances June 25 and Opens June 26

Ivoryton Playhouse will continue its summer season with the Tony Award-winning musical 1776, starring Broadway’s Mark Aldrich* (My Fair Lady, Disney’s Newsies: The Musical, Ragtime). The production begins with a first preview on Thursday, June 25, officially opens on Friday, June 26, and runs through Sunday, July 26 at Ivoryton Playhouse, located at 103 Main Street in Ivoryton, Connecticut.

With music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone, 1776 brings one of the most consequential moments in American history to the stage with humor, urgency, and heart. Set in the sweltering summer of 1776, the musical follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and the members of the Continental Congress as they struggle to agree on the bold and dangerous act of declaring independence from Great Britain.

Far from a dusty history lesson, 1776 is a lively, human, and often surprisingly funny look at the complicated people behind the founding of the United States. The musical captures the heated debates, clashing personalities, political bargaining, and moral contradictions that shaped the birth of a nation.

“1776 reminds us that American democracy was never simple, quiet, or inevitable,” said Ben Hope, Executive Producer at Ivoryton Playhouse. “It was argued into existence by imperfect people facing enormous pressure, and that makes the story feel not only historic, but incredibly alive.”

Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, 1776 has remained a favorite of audiences for generations, thanks to its rich characters, stirring score, sharp wit, and timely questions about leadership, compromise, courage, and the cost of freedom.

Director Kenn McLaughlin says, “The greatest gift 1776 gives us is to make these men deeply human [alongside] powerful debates on race, the threat of civil rebellion, the leverage of popular media, a megalomaniacal leader, economic uncertainty, unpopular war, and fear of change; this is the story of 1776”.

Ivoryton Playhouse’s production offers a grand-scale event seldom seen in its intimate, historic venue. Featuring 26 professional actors, 8 orchestra members, and 8 design team members, the founding fathers will be vividly brought to life in a production designed to enchant and entertain.

Performances continue through July 26. Tickets are available through the Ivoryton Playhouse box office at 860-767-7318 or online at ivorytonplayhouse.org.

About Ivoryton Playhouse: Ivoryton Playhouse is a renowned small professional theater on the Shoreline. It is known for its exceptional productions and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.

*Appearing through an agreement between this theatre and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Photos courtesy of Jonathan Steele

For more information, interviews, and press inquiries, please contact:
Ben Hope, Executive Producer – ben@ivorytonplayhouse.org

For press tickets, please contact:
Susan McCann – susanmc@ivorytonplayhouse.org

Looking for something to do? Ivoryton Playhouse has been voted best place to see live theatre by readers of The Shoreline Times for three years in a row. Come to Essex and visit our historic, professional theatre – a Connecticut treasure!

We have some great deals for our members at the Chorus Line level and above during the run of 1776. Check these out – show your membership card to take advantage of these dynamite discounts!!