February 20, 2008

 

“Jefferson & Adams: A Stage Play,” written by Howard Ginsberg and based on his original play, is the moving and powerful dramatization of the remarkable friendship between two presidents of the United States — with the forthright Mrs. Adams always playing a major role.

In a fast-paced series of encounters, the play shows the turbulent relationship between Thomas Jefferson, played by Colonial Williamsburg interpreter Bill Barker, and John Adams, played by veteran actor Sam Goodyear, as their friendship ignites, flourishes, ruptures and resolves itself. The perceptive Abigail Adams, played by Colonial Williamsburg interpreter Abigail Schumann, acts as a catalyst and motivator while steadfastly maintaining her own beliefs.

The play, sponsored by Grand Valley State University’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies and the Grand Forum, was held Wednesday, February 20, at 7 p.m., in Loosemore Auditorium on Grand Valley’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus, 401 W. Fulton.