Of Thee I Sing: Politics on Stage

Musical theater in the United States has engaged with political topics from its early days. From George and Ira Gershwin’s “Of Thee I Sing” to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton: An American Musical,” the intersection between entertainment, politics and patriotism presents an emotionally powerful combination for theatergoers.

Louisiana’s Old State Capitol will host a series of programming related to this panel exhibit. A screening of “1776” will take place in the Senate Chamber beginning at 1 P.M., Sunday, February 5. This award-winning musical retells the political struggle in the Continental Congress to declare independence. The Broadway hit musical, “Hamilton” will be screened in the Senate Chamber at 1 P.M., Sunday, March 5. “Hamilton” tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton through a blend of hip-hop, jazz and R&B music. These programs are free and open to the public.