We the People: America Rocks!

Jamie LaVerdiere as Thomas Jefferson (left) and Colin McAdoo as George Washington

Photograph: Cinzia Reale-Castello

An American government lesson does not have to be a snoozefest—at least, that’s what TheatreworksUSA is out to prove. In their latest musical, We the People: America Rocks, the Founding Fathers (Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, John Adams and George Washington) are a rock band who have time-traveled to the present day. Their mission: to inspire a young girl named Dawn with no interest in politics to run in her school’s student-council election and become more passionate about government.

Playing something like a live version of the classic Schoolhouse Rock series, the show is filled with songs that relate to specific government topics, from the Electoral College to maintaining the balance of power. A talented team of songwriters (including Kevin del Aguila, who wrote the book for Altar Boyz) contributed a range of musical styles to the score. Songs include “Oyez, oyez,” a Supreme Court jingle with a Latin beat, and “We in the House,” a hip-hop tune about passing a bill.

The look of the production is just as eclectic: The costumes mix “colonial style and rock-band chic,” says director Gordon Greenberg. Taking cues from Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, the wardrobe team based Washington’s ensemble on the style of post-punk rocker Adam Ant, and Jefferson’s coat on a Prince album cover image. Fittingly, the set—a school gymnasium decked out in a red, white and blue color scheme, and filled with concert paraphernalia—exudes a patriotic fervor.

Along with great visuals and catchy tunes, the show has plenty of humor to keep tykes engaged. In order to convince Dawn that politics can be fun, the Founding Fathers dress up as silly characters, including an eagle and a sassy tween. The script also features “Saturday Night Live–like imitations of the Supreme Court,” says Greenberg. “Think Jon Stewart meets the Jonas Brothers.”

We the People: America Rocks runs Jul 8–Aug 13 at the Lucille Lortel Theatre. Click here for showtimes. Tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Many performances sell out so arrive early to snag seats. Best for ages 8 and up. No stroller storage.

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