Happy 4th of July!
This week, we rewind the clock twice, once to March 16, 1969 and then all the way back to 1776!
- The original production of 1776 opened at the 46th Street Theatre (since renamed the Richard Rodgers) on March 16th, 1969.
- The show’s story concerned the creation and signing of the Declaration of Independence, with the show ending on July 4th, 1776.
- William Daniels (who later went on to play Mr. Feeny on the hit show (Boy Meets World) played John Adams and Betty Buckley played Martha Jefferson.
- It ran for over 1200 performances, switching theatres twice (first to the St. James Theatre and then to the Majestic Theatre).
- The show was nominated for five Tony Awards, winning four including Best Musical.
- A movie version premiered in 1972, once again starring William Daniels.
Below, check out 1776’s Tony Award performance from the 1969 ceremony!