“We hold these Truths to be self–evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness….” – Thomas Jefferson

This is the story of our nation’s struggle to live up to it’s values. To honor the sacrifices of so many, and the vision of its founders. Throughout our history we made attempts to build on those truths; to form a more perfect union. This is the journey of many people; man, woman, native, slave, immigrant, and many others all striving to realize the idea of America. This is our story…our endeavor…our American Struggle.

Presented in four acts:

Act I – Defending Freedom ; Battle Hymn of the Republic by William Steffe

by William Steffe Act II – Defining Freedom ; Strange Fruit by Abel Merpool

by Abel Merpool Act III – Making a Way Out Of No Way ; Stand Up For Something by Common & Diane Warren

by Common & Diane Warren Act IV – Double Victory ; Sing Sing Sing / Stars & Stripes Forever Medley by Louis Prima and John Philip Sousa

Musical Arrangements by Will Wells of Blue Dot Marching

Percussion Arrangement by David Vielhaber

References:

These references are to provide the viewer an opportunity to learn more about the historical events that influenced our history, and our show. The goal is to provide information as a starting point to learn more about our national struggle and to give greater context to musical selections for our production.

Act I Inspiration

Act II Inspiration

Act III Inspiration

Act IV Inspiration