PRODUCATION MUST CLOSE MAY 19, 2012

Washington, D.C. – The Ford’s Theatre Society announced that the Tony Award-winning musical 1776, directed by Peter Flynn, has surpassed revenue records to become the highest grossing theatrical production since the historic theatre reopened as a working playhouse in 1968. Due to previous commitments by the actors and Ford’s Theatre, 1776 must close May 19, 2012.

With quick-witted dialogue and a playful score, 1776 dramatizes the impassioned debates of Philadelphia’s Second Continental Congress and the writing of the Declaration of Independence. 1776 features Brooks Ashmanskas as John Adams (Broadway’s Promises, Promises; The Producers; Martin Short- Fame Becomes Me, others); Christopher Bloch (Ford’s Parade, Liberty Smith, A Christmas Carol, others) as Benjamin Franklin; Robert Cuccioli as John Dickinson (Broadway’s Les Misérables, Jekyll & Hyde); William Diggle as Thomas Jefferson and Floyd King as Stephen Hopkins, among others.

“At Ford’s, we strive to bring American experiences to life through the intersection of history and theatre, and it has been a joy to see Washingtonians and visitors alike responding with such enthusiasm at each performance of 1776 this spring,” said Ford’s Theatre Director Paul R. Tetreault.

Most of the remaining performances are sold-out. Partial view seats can be purchased in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office (511 Tenth Street NW Washington, DC). A limited number of single seats as well as accessible seats can be purchased via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 and fords.org. Ticketmaster fees apply.

What critics are saying:
“Dandy new revival! The production is calculated to stir the soul of every lover of the American story, without regard to which lever you pull on Election Day. Feast on the tableau 1776 conjures!”
- The Washington Post

“4 ½ stars! If not for the wigs, the costumes, and the elevated accents, this could be a snapshot of Congress in 2012. Thanks to clever dialogue, wonderful voices, and standout performances, 1776 succeeds admirably.”   -The Washingtonian

“An engrossing production, hugely entertaining and engaging! A human look at the men who ended up producing and signing the Declaration of Independence.” - The Georgetowner

“Truly there is no greater venue for this, an American theatrical treasure, than Ford’s Theatre. As the ghosts of some of our first politicians sing and dance their way through 1776, we are reminded of the many sacrifices made – both personal and political – for the sake of these United States.”
- Washington Examiner

1776 is made possible by sponsors Raytheon Company, Verizon, Visa, Inc., United Technologies Corporation and Altria Group. Media Partner ABC7/NewsChannel8/TBD.com provides promotional support throughout the run. Ford’s Theatre’s 2011-2012 season sponsors are The Home Depot and Chevron.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Beyea at (202) 434-9543 or lbeyea@fords.org