Celebrating the Legacy of Woody Guthrie: A Musical Journey Through America's Folk Troubadour

TheaterWorks Hartford, under the leadership of Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero and Managing Director Jeff Griffin, is set to captivate audiences with a revival of the acclaimed musical production, "WOODY SEZ: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie." This infectiously fun and insightful exploration of the legendary folk icon's life and legacy will grace the stage from July 13-28, 2024, inviting theatergoers to embark on a transformative experience that celebrates the enduring spirit of American folk music.

Rediscover the Timeless Melodies and Powerful Narratives of a Folk Music Icon

Woody Guthrie: Defining an Era of Social Consciousness and Political Expression

Woody Guthrie was a towering figure in the world of American folk music, his songs and lyrics serving as a powerful vehicle for social protest and observation. His iconic anthem, "This Land is Your Land," has become a beloved anthem, capturing the essence of the nation's diverse landscapes and the shared experiences of its people. Guthrie's ability to transform the folk ballad into a platform for social commentary paved the way for the rise of influential musicians such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Bruce Springsteen, who have carried on his legacy of using music to amplify the voices of the marginalized and inspire social change.

Bringing Woody Guthrie's Story to Life: A Joyous, Toe-Tapping Musical Portrait

"WOODY SEZ" is a captivating musical production that delves into the life and times of this legendary folk troubadour. Devised by David M. Lutken, Nick Corley, Darcie Deaville, Helen J. Russell, and Andy Teirstein, the show promises to be an exhilarating and thought-provoking experience that celebrates Woody Guthrie's enduring legacy. Featuring a talented ensemble of actor-musicians, including Sam Sherwood as Woody Guthrie, Helen J. Russell, David Finch, and Nyssa Grant, the production will showcase over 25 of Guthrie's classic songs, inviting the audience to discover why he is considered the "patron saint of American rebelliousness" and how his influence continues to shape the cultural landscape of the United States.

A Triumphant Return to TheaterWorks Hartford

This production of "WOODY SEZ" marks a triumphant return to TheaterWorks Hartford, where the show first captivated audiences a decade ago. Producing Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero expresses his excitement about the revival, stating, "We are thrilled to bring back WOODY SEZ 10 years later for this fun, summer event! Our audiences are in for an awesome treat. The cast is incredibly talented, and the story is quintessential American history seen through fresh eyes. It's exhilarating, thought-provoking, and heartwarming."

A Talented Creative Team Brings Woody Guthrie's Legacy to Life

The production of "WOODY SEZ" boasts a talented creative team, including Luke Cantarella (set design), Jeffrey Meek (costume design), Seth Reiser (lighting design), and Tom Kosis (stage manager). Together, they will bring Woody Guthrie's incredible journey to life, immersing the audience in the sights, sounds, and emotions that defined his era of social consciousness and political expression.

Performances and Ticketing Information

Performances of "WOODY SEZ" will take place from July 13-28, 2024, at TheaterWorks Hartford's historic home, located at 233 Pearl Street, Hartford, CT. The performance schedule includes Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2:30 pm and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Tickets are priced at -50 and can be purchased online at twhartford.org or by calling 860.527.7838.

Hootenanny Sundays: A Celebration of Community and Shared Artistry

In addition to the captivating performances, TheaterWorks Hartford is bringing back the beloved "Hootenanny Sundays" – unstructured and free-flowing jam sessions with the cast. On July 14, 21, and 28, after the Sunday matinee shows, patrons are encouraged to bring their favorite instruments and play along with the talented ensemble, fostering a sense of community and shared artistry that echoes the spirit of Woody Guthrie's legacy.

About TheaterWorks Hartford: Celebrating 39 Years of Storytelling and Community

Celebrating its 39th season, TheaterWorks Hartford (TWH) has a rich history of producing high-quality, contemporary theater and is committed to the power of storytelling in creating community. Founded in 1985, TWH has produced nearly 200 plays and presents approximately 150 performances per season. The organization also owns and manages the historic property at 233 Pearl Street, known as City Arts on Pearl. For updates on TheaterWorks Hartford and its upcoming productions, visit twhartford.org or follow the organization on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.