The Sheboygan Theatre Company will conclude the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary Season, which is co-sponsored by the Stefanie H. Weill Charitable Fund and Acuity for the Arts, with the opening of "1776" on Friday, May 29.

Extremely inspirational and dramatic, “1776” is not without humor as it recounts the meetings of the Second Continental Congress. Documenting the writing of the Declaration of Independence, the musical tells what led up to the bold step by which the American Colonies declared their separation from England. Focusing on the disputatious arguments between those opposed to Independence and those in favor of it, the show realistically brings to life some of the most important events in the history of the United States of America. Most significantly, as it chronicles the maneuverings, compromises and coincidences that brought about the adoption of one of the most famous documents ever composed, the show depicts the characters involved as very real people. The fathers of our country are seen, not as “stuffy” or “plastic” historical figures, but rather as full of all the normal foibles and frailties of human nature.

Winner of the 1969 Tony Award for Best Musical, “1776” is a big Broadway production, by turns warm, human, funny, moving and passionate, which features music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone.

According to Director Ralph Maffongelli, “This particular show offers an incredibly entertaining way for people to learn the basic history of how this great country was started. Adults and children alike owe it to themselves to see “1776” and find out more about the era of the American Revolution. And they’ll see it with one of the most experienced casts we’ve ever assembled. Having worked on over four hundred productions with the organization, the twenty- six actors represent more than 215 years of involvement with the Sheboygan Theatre Company.”

Sponsored by Pemco, Inc., "1776" will open Friday, May 29, and be performed each evening through Saturday, June 6, with the exceptions of Sunday and Monday. There is also a matinee on Sunday, May 31. The production will be presented at the completely handicap accessible Leslie W. Johnson Theatre, 2820 Union Avenue, Sheboygan, with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. and matinees at 2:00 p.m.

Admission is $20.00 for adults, $16.00 for seniors sixty and over and $10.00 for youngsters through high school and college students. Tickets are available at the Theatre Company office in the Community Recreation Department, 607 S. Water Street, or at the theatre box office 45 minutes before curtain of each performance. To learn more visit www.sheboygantheatercompany.com and then call 920/459-3779 to reserve tickets or for further information.