Jefferson & Adams

by Howard Ginsberg

Directed by Elaine Pfeil

Thomas Jefferson – Kenneth Whyte
John Adams – Jake Krug
Abigail Adams – Beth Aldrich

Synopsis:  The inspiring lives of Thomas Jefferson and John and Abigail Adams are woven together in a moving story. Based on the letters they wrote, the play spans their 50 years of close but turbulent friendship from 1776 up to the deaths of Jefferson and John Adams who both died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. 

Why this play? With 2026 being the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, our country's history is being celebrated everywhere. Audiences will really enjoy this look at the first fifty years of US history through the lens of the friendship between Jefferson and Adams. The play has been performed at Monticello, John Adams' house in Quincy, MA, the Kimball Theater in Colonial Williamsburg, Poplar Forest, and other theaters throughout the country. 

What the audience can expect: Jefferson & Adams is being presented as a one-night-only staged reading. The minimal use of sets and costumes allows the words of these three remarkable people to stand out, giving us a deeper understanding of the minds and hearts of some of the people who helped form our country.

Local Exchange is how we open our blackbox to Staunton's broader creative and civic community. These events are organized and hosted by local artists, educators, advocates, and neighbors — each one a reflection of what this community cares about.