program notes by composition > s > Selections from 1776
Selections from 1776
Sherman Edwards, arranged by Frank Erickson
1776 is a musical with music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone. The story is based on the events surrounding the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It dramatizes the efforts of John Adams to persuade his colleagues to vote for American independence and to sign the document.
It premiered on Broadway in 1969, earning warm reviews, and ran for 1,217 performances. The production was nominated for five Tony Awards and won three, including the Tony Award for Best Musical. In 1972 it was made into a film adaptation. It was revived on Broadway in 1997.
- Program Note from Wikipedia
This medley includes The Lees of Old Virginia; He Plays the Violin; Momma, Look Sharp; and Is Anybody There?