If you are a Lincoln history buff or if you simply love musical theater, treat yourself to The Lincolns of Springfield, currently playing at the Hoogland Center for the Arts through July 16. Be ready for songs that will fill your heart, stir your soul and stay with you long after the performance. I experienced chills several times.
This original show brings to life the personal story of the love between Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln. While the history and the collections of artifacts and documents for the 16th president are extensive, the couple's love story is less known.
The show was 20 years in the making, with extensive research conducted by Terrence Cranert to ensure historical accuracy. He also composed the music and wrote the lyrics, which range from joyous and uplifting to stirring and riveting. Cranert's wife, Rebecca Powers Cranert, is the show's co-producer. She is a professional singer and showcases her acting and singing chops in the role of Mary Todd's finishing school governess.
Rosemary Blankson opens the show with a powerful vocal performance of the song "Freedom." Blankson portrays Elizabeth Keckley, who is initially young Mary's nursemaid and confidante. She buys her freedom and later becomes Mary's dressmaker and best friend.
Everything about the show, from the cast to the music and choreography to the wardrobes is top notch. The cast is comprised of professional actor/singers/dancers starting with Matthew Patrick Davis who embodies the tall, lanky, quick-witted Abe. Deborah Robin portrays a charming and strong-willed Mary. Some may be surprised to learn that Mary was a well educated and socially astute Southern belle from a wealthy family, as well as an abolitionist, when she met a young awkward Abe who had not yet learned to dance. Her song, "A Diamond in the Rough," explains that with a little polishing, Abe will be a suitable match for her.
The show features music recorded by the Los Angeles Symphony Orchestra and an incredible gospel choir supporting the ensemble songs. You will also appreciate the talents of the award-winning creative team, including musical director Steven Applegate, costume designer Shon LeBlanc and choreographer Maria Del Bagno.
Act I focuses on the early lives of Abe and Mary and how they meet, fall in love and marry. The scenes reflect who Abe and Mary were at the time. The music is lighthearted and melodic with pure rhyme schemes in the style and tradition of the golden age of Broadway.
Act II sees Abe making strides in his political career, being elected president and moving his family to the White House. With the Civil War at the center of their lives, the acting and music reflect the gravitas of those years. Despite the ravages and despair of war, the couple remain devoted to each other.
Michal Connor's performance as Lincoln's valet, William Henry Johnson, is moving. After Lincoln's assassination, he sings "Bind Up the Nation's Wounds," a touchstone phrase from Lincoln's second inaugural address. His deep, booming voice is perfect for this haunting, emotional song.
The Lincolns of Springfield is a delightful show that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds. It is both educational and entertaining, with strong performances and memorable music. The songs were recorded by the cast and are now available on streaming services such as Spotify.
The Cranerts are pleased with the public's response to the show, saying it has exceeded their expectations. People from across central Illinois, as well as from Chicago and St. Louis, are traveling to Springfield to see the show and giving it standing ovations.
Remaining performances are scheduled Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., plus 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. If you don't have a chance to see the show this summer, don't despair. The Cranerts plan to bring it back to Springfield annually. At the same time, they are in talks about taking the musical to New York and London.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hcfta.com.
Jean Campbell is a Springfield freelance writer who was thoroughly captivated by The Lincolns of Springfield.
