Benjamin Franklin is one of the most recognizable and relatable of the Founding generation - approachable, still relevant, wise, sassy, a game changer. His popularity, his colorful life and legacy, and his undeniable influence on so many aspects of modern American life make an encounter with Ben the perfect opportunity for audiences of all ages to learn from his lessons and bring his memories to life in a new way. Ben has something to say to everyone.
As throughout all of modern history, the world Ben lived in is not so very different from our own. Our world and his were both replete with tyrants, struggling artists, dreamers, and scammers. We both have those who would sacrifice themselves for the greater good, and those who would steal food from starving children; those who would use their God to gain power over others; and those who would shield and protect those weaker themselves with all they have.
In short, each of us has the potential to improve life for those who we will never know, much as Ben Franklin did during his own day. How will you take advantage of the opportunities afforded to you today to make life better for those who will follow after you? While the past cannot tell us definitively what we should do, it can provide insight into where we should look for inspiration.
About the Show
​Runtime
Variable and tailored for each presenting organization
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30-minute presentations appropriate for schools, libraries, and young audiences
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45-minute presentations appropriate for fundraisers, conferences, science fiction cons, and Renaissance or history faires
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90-minute presentations appropriate for feature length evening presentations
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Subject matter
Family-friendly, appropriate for all ages; a factual re-creation and depiction of American colonial historical events presented in a first-person, conversational style. Features an interactive question-and-answer section both interspersed during the performance and immediately afterward.
Show Format
More than just a "one man show," Benjamin Franklin Alive! transcends reenactment through the magic of the Chautauqua technique to embody Dr Franklin and speak as he would to modern audiences, sharing his own experiences and viewpoints that he expressed throughout his writing and within his contemporaries' verified encounters with him. While reenactments offer entertaining recitations of dates, quotes, and events by blending them with modern awareness, our performances interpret Benjamin Franklin, the man, as he really was - flaws and all. In this way, it becomes a true re-creation that deals much more with Ben's inner thoughts - his very soul.
Appropriate Audiences
We have developed a number of different programs to fit specific audiences, but the majority of our run times range from around 30 minutes (appropriate for schools, libraries, and family-oriented events) up to 90-minute performances for evening presentations.
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Every presentation is family friendly and appropriate for all ages. The subject matter, which is all grounded in historical fact and has been thoroughly researched, features personal anecdotes, humorous and heart-touching tales, and period / character appropriate answers to each audience's questions.
