Production History – 1968-2007
2008-2009 Season
A Christmas Carol
Written by Charles Dickens
Adaptation by Michael Wilson
Directed by Matt August
Original Staging Recreated by Mark Ramont
Featuring: Clinton Brandhagen, Michael Bunce, Steven Carpenter, Michael John Casey, Emily Cochrane, Katie Culligan, Elliot Dash, Michael Feldsher, Carlos Gonzalez, Michael Goodwin, Jewel Greenberg, Claudia Miller, Julia Proctor, Martin Rayner, Suzanne Richard, Kimberly Schraf and Harry A. Winter
December 2 to December 28, 2009
The Heavens Are Hung In Black
Written by James Still
Directed by Stephen Rayne
Featuring: Norman Aronovic, Michael Bannigan, Stephen Carpenter, James Chatham, Benjamin Cook, James Denvil, Jonathan Fielding, Michael Goodwin, Edward James Hyland, Beth Hylton, Michael Kramer, Robin Moseley, Hugh Nees, Jefferson A. Russell, Benjamin Schiffbauer, Kimberly Schraf, David Selby, David Emerson Toney, Chaney Tullos, Jonathan Watkins and Scott Westerman
February 3 to March 8, 2009
Birth and Rebirth: A Celebration of the Lincoln Bicentennial and Reopening of Ford’s Theatre
Lincoln Medal Recipients: Sidney Poitier and George Lucas
Featuring: Katie Couric, Kelsey Grammer, James Earl Jones, Ben Vereen, Jeffrey Wright, the President’s Own Marine Band, Patrick Lundy and the Ministers of Music, Audra McDonald and Jessye Norman
February 11, 2009
The Civil War
Book and Lyrics by Frank Wildhorn, Gregory Boyd, and Jack Murphy
Music by Frank Wildhorn
Directed by Jeff Calhoun
Featuring: Sarah Darling, Elliot Dash, Eleasha Gamble, Michael Goodwin, Darryl Reuben Hall, Sean Jenness, Matthew John Kacergis, Kellee Knighten, Michael Lanning, Kingsley Leggs, Michael “Tuba” McKinsey, Aaron Reeder, Bart Shatto, Timothy Shew, Chris Sizemore, Stephen Gregory Smith and Bligh Voth
March 27 to May 24, 2009
The Road from Appomattox
Written by Richard Hellesen
Directed by Mark Ramont
Featuring: John Dow and Stephen Carpenter
April 7 to May 22, 2009
One Destiny
Written by Richard Hellesen
Directed by Mark Ramont
Featuring: Michael Bunce and Stephen F. Schmidt
April 14 to May 20, 2009
2006-2007
STATE OF THE UNION
A Ford’s Theatre Production
Written by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse
Directed by Kyle Donnelly
Featuring: Jim Abele, Christopher Bloch, Michael Gabel, Martha Hackett, Naomi Jacobson, Ellen Karas, Floyd King, James Konicek, High Nees, Joe Peck, Kip Pierson, Andrew Polk, Nancy Robinette, Sam Tsoutsouvas, Esther Williamson
September 22- October 22, 2006
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Michael Wilson
Directed by Matt August
Featuring: Clinton Brandhagen, Michael Bunce, Michael John Casey, Teresa Castracane, Elliot Dash, Jaclyn DiLauro, Carlos Gonzalez, Michael Goodwin, Bill Hensel, Katie Kleiger, Amy McWilliams, Claudia Miller, Kip Pierson, Richard Poe, Suzanne Richard, Todd Scofield, Erin Sloan.
November 15- December 30, 2006
JITNEY
A Ford’s Theatre Production in association with African Continuum Theatre Company
Written by August Wilson
Directed by Jennifer L. Nelson
Featuring: Doug Brown, Jessica Francis Dukes, Thembi Duncan, Cleo Reginald Pizana, Ken Yatta Rogers, Fred Strother, Addison Switzer, David Emerson Toney, Craig Wallace, Michael Anthony Williams, Lance Coadie Williams.
January 19-February 18, 2007
MARK RUSSELL…and the Pendulum Swings
A Ford’s Theatre Production
February 21- 25, 2007
MEET JOHN DOE- musical World Premiere
A Ford’s Theatre Production
Written by Andrew Gerle and Eddie Sugarman
Additional story by Matt August
Directed by Eric Schaeffer
Featuring: Heidi Blickenstaff, Christopher Bloch, Joel Blum, Suzanne Briar, Michael Bunce, Evan Casey, Daniel Cohen, Danielle Eden, Eleasha Gamble, Kimberly McNeese, Channez McQuay, Amy McWilliams, James Moye, Tracy Lynn Olivera, Guy Paul, Joe Peck, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Stephen Gregory Smith, Patrick Ryan Sullivan.
March 16- May 20, 2007
ONE DESTINY
Commissioned by Ford’s Theatre
Written by Richard Hellesen
Directed by Mark Ramont
Featuring: Michael Bunce as Harry Hawk; Stephen F. Schmidt as Harry Ford
April 3- May 12, 2007
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Rascal Flatts, Yolanda Adams, Jonathan Roberts, Karina Smirnoff, D.L. Hughley, Olivia Newton-John, James Pickens, Jr., Jon Secada, Wynonna, Heidi Blickenstaff, Guy Paul, Stephen Gregory Smith.
Gala Date: June 24, 2007
Air Date: December 19, 2007
2005-2006
LEADING LADIES
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Ken Ludwig
Directed by Mark Rucker
Featuring: John Astin, JD Cullum, Daniel Frith, Ian Kahn, Patrick Kerr, Lacey Kohl, Charlotte Rae, Karen Ziemba
September 23- October 23, 2005
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Michael Wilson
Directed by Matt August
Featuring: Clinton Brandhagen, Michael Bunce, Michael John Casey, Teresa Castracane, Elliot Dash, Carlos Gonzalez, Michael Goodwin, Kimberly Parker Green, Bill Hensel, Illiana Inocencio, Kathleen Kulikowski, Amy McWilliams, Claudia Miller, Kip Pearson, Martin Rayner, Suzanne Richard, Todd Scofield.
November 16- December 31, 2005
TRYING
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Ken Ludwig
Directed by Gus Kaikkonen
Featuring: James Whitmore and Karron Graves
January 20th- February 25, 2006
Mark Russell: Mondays with Mark
A Ford’s Theatre Production
February 6, 13, & 20, 2006
Shenandoah
A Ford’s Theatre Production
Book by: James Lee Barrett, Peter Udell and Philip Rose
Based on the Original Screenplay by: James Lee Barrett
Music by: Gary Geld
Lyrics by: Peter Udell
Directed by: Jeff Calhoun
Featuring: Scott Bakula (thru April 30th), Cherry Harth Baumbusch, Christopher Bloch, Peter Boyer, Evan Casey, Kevin Clay, Rick Faugno, Richard Frederick, Ryan Jackson, Megan Lewis, Timothy Dale Lewis, Garrett Long, Mike Mainwaring, Tracy Lynn Olivera, Geoff Packard, Richard Pelzman, Noah Racey, Aaron Ramey, Andrew Samonsky, Anna Marie Sell, Stephen Schmidt, Bret Shuford, Brian Sutherland ( May 2nd- May 21st), Danny Tippett, Rachel Zampelli
March 17- May 21, 2006
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Tom Selleck, Heather Headley, Steve Bridges, Chris Botti, Kevin Clay & Mike Mainwaring, Renee Olstead, Lonestar, Josh Turner, Kevin Nealon, Bill Conti and The American Celebration Orchestra, The Choral Arts Society of Washington.
Gala Date: June 25, 2006
2004-2005
THE MATCHMAKER
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Thornton Wilder
Directed by Mark Lamos
Featuring: Ross Bickell, Anne Bowles, Stephanie Burden, Brad Fraizer, Michael Goodwin, Jonathan Hadary, Christopher J. Hanke, Timmy Ray James, Andrea Martin, David McNamara, Matthew Floyd Miller, Lola Pashalinski, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Anne Stone, Sarah Zimmerman
September 24-October 24, 2004
*A Christmas Carol
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Michael Wilson
Directed by Matt August
Featuring: Jackie Baker, Briana Lynn Banks, Clinton Brandhagen, Simone Brown, Kent Burnham, Michael John Casey, Allison Comotto, Spencer Michael Deese, Saskia de Vries, Alix Elias, Michael Goodwin, Carlos Juan Gonzalez, David Grindrod, Bill Hensel, Kent Jenkins, Amy McWilliams, Claudia Miller, Natalie Perez-Dual, Kip Pierson, Angela Denise Polite, Martin Rayner, Austin Riggs, Frank Robinson, Jr., Marshall Samuel Swing, Gracie Terzian, Jeorge Watson, Carl Wilson, KC Wright
November 23, 2004-January 2, 2005
MARK RUSSELL: COMEDY, MUSIC, BRIBERY & CONSPIRACY
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
January 18-23,2005
THE MEMBER OF THE WEDDING
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Carson McCullers
Directed by Marshall W. Mason
Featuring: Doug Brown, Linda Gravátt, Beth Hylton, James J. Johnson, Nina Kauffman, Alexander L. Lange, John Lepard, Nathalie Nicole Paulding, Jewell Robinson, Lee Aaron Rosen, Kyle Schliefer, Kimberly Schraf, Ellen Warner
February 4-27, 2005
BIG RIVER: THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN
Produced by Atlanta’s Theater of the Stars with Ford’s Theatre, Deaf West Theatre, Dallas Summer Musicals, Gorgeous Entertainment, Theatre Under the Stars, Wang Center Productions in association with Center Theatre Group/Mark Taper Forum, Roundabout Theatre Company and Jeff Calhoun
Book by William Hauptman
Adapted from the novel by Mark Twain
Music and lyrics by Roger Miller
Featuring: Michael McElroy, Bill O’Brien, Christopher B. Corrigan, Darren Frazier, Jay Lusteck, Jeannette Bayardelle, Catherine Brunell, Stanley Bahorek, Linda Bove, Michelle A. Banks, Christopher Bloch Debra Buonaccorsi, Walter Charles, Willy Conley, Christopher Michael Desouza, Desiré Dubose, Elizabeth Greene, Dan Manning, David McLellen, Andres Otalora, David Michael Roth, Ben Thompson, Charles E. Wallace
March 18-June 4, 2005
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Jeff Foxworthy, Hilary Duff,, Jesse McCartney, Julie Roberts, Josh Gracin, Denyce Graves and Geena Davis, Debbie Allen Dance Academy and the U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants.
Gala Date June 12, 2005.
2003-2004
The Grapes of Wrath
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Frank Galati
Based on the novel by John Steinbeck
Directed by David Cromer
Music by Josh Schmidt
Featuring: Annabel Armour, Susan Bennett, Lonnie Burr, Rusty Clauss, Aubrey Deeker, Brian Hamman, Jeffrey Hutchinson, Jack Kyrieleison, Amy McWilliams, Stephen McWilliams, Jim Ortlieb, Joe Peck, Craig Walker, Jim Zidar
October 1-November 15, 2003
*A Christmas Carol
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Timothy Gregory
Musical Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Johanna Aldrich, Mark Aldrich, Jim Beard, Stephen Crossley, Scott Evans, Brian Gill, Stephen Patrick Martin, Brian Jordan Riemer, Howie Smith
November 22-December 31, 2003
George Gershwin Alone
Written by Hershey Felder
Music and Lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin
Directed by Joel Zwick
Featuring: Hershey Felder
January 6-25, 2004
Looking Over the President’s Shoulder
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by James Still
Directed by James Still
Featuring: Wendell Wright
January 30-March 7, 2004
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Kelsey Grammer, Jessica Simpson, David Spade, Rascal Flatts, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Patti Labelle, Brad Paisley, Michelle Williams, Ron Lucas, Gary Sinise
Gala Date: March 14, 2004
Air Date: July 4, 2004
Children of Eden
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
Book by John Caird
Directed by David H. Bell
Featuring: Becca Ayers, Matt Baker, Nicholas Belton, Joe Cassidy, Tyrone Davis, Bradley Dean, Andre’ Garner, David W. Gilleo, Ivo Gueorguiev, Clark Johnsen, Telly Leung, Kelly McCormick, Monique L. Midgette, Karen Olivo, Brendt Reil, Christeena M. Riggs, Eduardo Rioseco, Toni Trucks, Kara Tameika Watkins, Ronya-Lee Anderson, Rob Sutton
March 25-June 6, 2004
2002-2003
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Timothy Gregory
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Steven Crossley, Mark Aldrich, Johanna Aldrich, Jim Beard, Christopher Bloch, Brandy Burre, David Covington, Mindy Dougherty, Scott Evans, Brian Gill, Tara Hugo, Sue Judin, Carolyn Pasquantonio, Kathryn Rice, Howie Smith, John Leslie Wolfe, Nicolas Cable, Henry Hodges, Madi Ferguson, Marshall Swing
November 24-December 30, 2002
*MARK RUSSELL AND HIS PIANO OF MASS DETRUCTION
January 15-19, 2003
GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE
Written by Hershey Felder
Music and Lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin
Directed by Joel Zwick
Featuring: Hershey Felder
January 23-February 23, 2003
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Kelsey Grammer, LeAnn Rimes, George Lopez, Jamia Simone Nash, Sam Waterston, Alison Krauss and Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas, Brian McKnight, Michelle Lee, Lonestar
Gala Date: March 2, 2003
Air Date: June 23, 2003
1776
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Peter Stone
Directed by David H. Bell
Music by Sherman Edwards
Featuring: David Huddleston, Lewis Cleale, Mark Aldrich, Kate Baldwin, Jim Beard, Trent Blanton, Christopher Bloch, Steven Crossley, Scott Evans, Daniel Felton, Michael L. Forrest, Matthew R. Jones, Anne Kanengeiser, Bill Largess, James Ludwig, Buzz Mauro, Chris Peluso, Frank Robinson, Jr., Graham Rowat, Stephen F. Schmidt, Jim Scopeletis, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Franklin Trapp, John Leslie Wolfe, Johanna Aldrich, Ryan Duncan
March 12-June 8, 2003
2001-2002
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Harper Lee
Adapted by Christopher Sergel
Directed by Timothy Childs
Featuring: Robert Emmet Lunney, Rita Glynn, Tim Carlin, David Aron Damane, Gabrielle Goyette, Wayne Jordan, Woodwyn Koons, Connor Paolo, Cherene Snow, Gregory Droggitis, Rodney Hussey, Maureen Kerrigan, Paul Morris, Robin Lynn Reaves, John Leslie Wolfe, Judith Knight Young, Michael L. Forrest, Timmy Ray James, Kate Kiley, Giulia Pagano, Pamela Sherman, Michael Anthony Williams
September 26-November 18, 2001
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Timothy Gregory
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Steven Crossley, Mark Aldrich, Jim Beard, Jennifer Dickison, Ryan Duncan, Scott Evans, Johanna Gerry, Monica Lijewski, Tracy McMullan, Tracy Lynn Olivera, Julie Price, Amy Sheff, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Rich Sullivan, Dwight Tolar, John Leslie Wolfe, Nicolas Cable, Henry Hodges, Katie Leslie, Joshua Turgel
November 24-December 30, 2001
I’M NOT RAPPAPORT
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production in Association with Coconut Grove Playhouse and Paper Mill Playhouse
Written by Herb Garner
Directed by Daniel Sullivan
Featuring: Judd Hirsch, Ben Vereen, Anthony Arkin, Steven Boyer, Jeb Brown, Tanya Clarke, Mimi Lieber
January 23-February 17, 2002
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Yolanda Adams, Kristen Chenoweth, David Copperfield, Dennis Franz, Kelsey Grammer, Mandy Moore, Daniel Rodriguez, John Spencer, SHeDAISY, Stevie Wonder. Special surprise guests: Olympic gold medalists Jill Bakken and Vonetta Flowers, bobsledding; Derek Parra, speedskating; Jim Shea, Jr., skeleton; and Chris Witty, speedskating.
Gala Date: March 3, 2002
Air Date: April 12, 2002
*HOT MIKADO
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: Ross Lehman, Ted L. Levy, David Ayers, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Bryan Crawford, Chandra Currelley, Randy A. Davis, Craig D’Amico, Kurt Domoney, Mamie Duncan-Gibbs, Pauline Locsin Kanter, Sean McKnight, Erich McMillan-McCall, Carolyn Ockert, Gina Philistine, Kelli Rabke, Jonathan Sharp, Denise Summerford, Denton Tarver, LaParee Young
March 13-June 16, 2002
2000-2001
INHERIT THE WIND
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee
Directed by Tim Childs
Featuring James Whitmore and Robert Prosky
September 26-November 5, 2000
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Timothy Gregory
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Steven Crossley, Mark Aldrich, Genevieve Baer, Jim Beard, Scott Evans, Johanna Gerry, Amy McWilliams, Tracy Olivera, Mary Jane Raleigh, Sara Ridberg, Judy Simmons, Thomas Adrian Simpson, Rich Sullivan, Dwight Tolar, Tim Tourbin, John Leslie Wolfe, Nicholas Cable, Zachary Goldbaum, Kate Kirschner, Justin Pereira
November 24-December 31, 2000
MARK RUSSELL: LET THE GAMES BEGIN
January 16-21, 2001
FULLY COMMITTED
Written by Becky Mode
Directed by Nicholas Martin
Featuring Ethan Sandler
January 25-February 25, 2001
SONGS FROM THE TALL GRASS-Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Book by Michael A. Ross & Phoef Sutton and Randy Hale & Emily Corey
Music and Lyrics by Randy Hale
(adapted or rewritten based on materials from 1840-1910)
Directed by Will Mackenzie
Choreography by Kay Cole
Featuring: Scott Waara, John Antony, Cliff Bemis, Teri Bibb, Emilyann Cummings, Tiffany Fraser, Johanna Gerry, Josh Hawkins, Kathleen Kulikowski, Celine Massuger, James Soller, Christopher Winsor, John Leslie Wolfe
March 13-June 3, 2001
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Jeff Foxworthy, Billy Gilman, Patricia Heaton, Ronn Lucas, Mya, SHeDAISY, Russell Watson and Bill Conti
Gala Date: June 10, 2001
Air Date: august 18, 2001
1999-2000
A COUPLE OF BLAGUARDS
Written by Frank McCourt and Malachy McCourt
Directed by Howard Platt
Featuring: Mickey Kelly and Malachy McCourt
September 15-October 31, 1999
NATIONAL FOLK THEATRE OF IRELAND
Sean agus Nua ‘99
Directed by John Sheehan
November 2-14, 1999
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Timothy Gregory
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Mark Aldrich, Bev Appleton, Justin Brill, Patrick Collins, Sheri L. Edelen, Scott Evans, Tim Fullerton, Nicole Halmos, Joshua Hawkins, Frank Kopyc, Sean MacLaughlin, Kara Maguire, Amy McWilliams, Zach Moody, Ron Parady, Julie Price, Shari Rager, Laura Serafino, Lauren Elizabeth Smith, Dwight Tolar
November 20, 1999-January 2, 2000
MARCEL MARCEAU
January 25-February 13, 2000
*WILL ROGERS’ U.S.A.
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Staged and Adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
February 15-27, 2000
REUNION: A MUSICAL EPIC IN MINIATURE - Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Book by Jack Kyrieleison
Story by Jack Kyrieleison and Ron Holgate
Directed by Ron Holgate
Music arranged by Michael O’Flaherty
March 7-June 18, 2000
1998-1999
PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE
Written by Steve Martin
Directed by Randall Arney
Featuring James Asher, Dan Hiatt, Ken Grantham, Kimberly King, Howard Swain, Michael Oosterom, Susannah Schulman, James Kruk, William Marchetti, Zachary Barton, Jason Antoon, Herman Petras
September 24-November 15, 1998
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Steven Carpenter, Joel Carron, Robyn Cohen, Jesse Coleman, Sherri L. Edelen, Wyatt Fenner, Adam Graham, Mary Melyssa Hall, Joshua Hawkins, Simon Key, Paul Martin Kovic, Frank Kopyc, John McCarthy, Amy McWilliams, John Michaelson, Donna Migliaccio, Ron Parady, Mary Jane Raleigh, Bill Thomas, Stephanie Waters
November 21, 1898-January 3, 1999
MARK RUSSELL: FULL DISCLOSURE
January 13-17, 1999
INSPIRATION - Musical (American Premiere)
Featuring Queen Ester Marrow and the Harlem Gospel Singers
February 2-28, 1999
ELEANOR: AN AMERICAN LOVE STORY-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Featuring Jesse Coleman, Anthony Cummings, David Eye, Ryan Ford, Osborn Forth, Kristen Huxhold, Kate Jetmore, Anne Kanengeiser, Kate Kiley, Emily Leonard, Rita Gardner, Tamra Hayden, Christine Hewitt, Andrew MacPhail, Gary Marachek, Andre Montgomery, Mary Jayne Raleigh, Steve Routman, Stephen Schmidt, Nathan Taylor
March 10-June 4, 1999
ABC-TV Special – An American Celebration
Featuring: Debbie Allen, Kathleen Battle, Charlotte Church, Alan Jackson, Diana Krall, Nathan Lane, Queen Ester Marrow, The Harlem Gospel Singers, Cartier Anthony Williams, Adam Arkin, Beau Bridges, James McDaniel and Bill Conti
Gala Date: June 13, 1999
Air Date: July 29, 1999
1997-1998
ALL I REALLY NEEDED TO KNOW I LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and adapted by Ernest Zulia
Music & lyrics by David Caldwell
Directed by Ernest Zulia
Featuring Bonnie Franklin, Gary Holcomb, Liz Sheridan, Lara Teeter and James Whitmore
September 23-November 2, 1997
POLITICALLY INCORRECT WITH BILL MAHER
November 4-7, 1997
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Ron Parady
November 23, 1997-January 5, 1998
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: Whoopi Goldberg, Anthony Clark, David Copperfield, John Fogerty, Kirk Franklin and God’s Property, Martina McBride
Gala Date: February 8, 1998
Air Date: April 9, 1998
KUDZU, A SOUTHERN MUSICAL - Musical (World Premiere)
Written by Jack Herrick, Doug Marlette and Bland Simpson
Directed by Lisa Portes
Featuring: Nicole Bradin, Clay Buckner, Ed Butler, Kevin Carolan, Donna English, Chris Frank, Joilet F. Harris, Jack Herrick, Rodney Hicks, Tim Hodgin, Roger Howell, Beth Leavel, James Ludwig, Bland Simpson
March 4-June 23, 1998
1996-1997
*WILL ROGERS’ U.S.A.
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Staged and Adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
September 24-October 20, 1996
THE GATE OF HEAVEN
Written by and Featuring Lane Nishikawa and Victor Talmadge
October 22-November 17, 1996
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Kevin Wallace
Featuring: Ron Parady
November 23-December 31, 1996
MARK RUSSELL’S INAUGURAL FOLLIES
January 15-21, 1997
TWILIGHT, LOS ANGELES, 1992
Conceived and performed by Anna Deavere Smith
January 30-February 14, 1997
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: Natalie Cole, Kevin Spacey, Jon Bon Jovi, Elayne Boosler, Gregory Hines, Ronn Lucas, Bill Maher, The Pendragons
Gala Date: March 2, 1997
PAPER MOON-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Book by Martin Casella
Music by Larry Grossman
Lyrics by Ellen Fitzhugh
March 14-June 29, 1997
1995-1996
*ELMER GANTRY-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by John Bishop
Directed by Michael Maggio
Featuring: John Dossett and Sharon Scruggs
September 12-November 5, 1995
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: Brett Butler, Lincoln Tribute by Dennis Franz, Chicago, Jeff Foxworthy, The Pendragons, Paula Poundstone, The Temptations, Shania Twain
Gala Date: November 12, 1995
Air Date: November 18, 1995
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by George Fulginiti Shakar
Featuring: Ron Parady and Brigid Cleary
November 21-December 31, 1995
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: Brett Butler, Dennis Franz (Lincoln Tribute), Chicago, Jeff Foxworthy, The Pendragons, Paula Poundstone, The Temptations, Shania Twain
Gala Date: November 12, 1995
Air Date: November 18, 1995
THE MAGNIFICENT YANKEE
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Emmet Lavery
Directed by Peter Hunt
Featuring: James Whitmore and Audra Lindley
February 2-March 10, 1996
*THE FANTASTICS-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt
Directed by James Mellon
Musical Direction by David Andrews Rogers/Larry Pressgrove
Featuring: Joe Sears and Jaston Williams
March 16-July 21, 1996
1994-1995
*THE FOREIGNER
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Larry Shue
Directed by David McKenna
Featuring: Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, Kevin Bailey, Kathleen Couser, Jonathan Lutz, Tim Mateer, Luther Williams
September 16-October 23, 1994
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: Whoopi Goldberg, Paul Reiser, Sam Waterston, Celine Dion, Kenny G, Denis Lacombe, Little Richard, Paula Poundstone, Luther Vandross
Gala Date: October 30, 1994
Air Date: December 7, 1994
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
November 22, 1994-January 1, 1995
A RAISIN IN THE SUN
Co-Produced with George Street Playhouse, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Written by Lorraine Hansberry
Directed by Seret Scott
Featuring: Joey Allen, Charles Geyer, Sheila Gibbs, Ayo Haynes, Tyrone Mitchell Henderson, Scott Lawrence, Eddie L. Murphy III, Brenda Pressley, Maduka Steady
NUNSENSE II-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written and directed by Dan Goggin
Featuring: Amanda Butterbaugh, Nancy Carroll, Carolyn Droscoski, Susan Emerson, Terri White, Teri Gibson
March 17-June 18, 1995
1993-1994
BEAU JEST
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production in association with Arthur Cantor
Written by James Sherman
Directed by Dennis Zacek
Featuring Roslyn Alexander, Bernie Landis, Scott Morgan, Isabel Rose, Stephen L. Schmidt, Sal Viviano
September 21-October 24, 1993
ABC-TV Special – A GALA FOR THE PRESIDENT AT FORD’S THEATRE (25TH ANNIVERSARY)
Featuring: Whoopi Goldberg, Jay Leno, Michael Bolton, Boyz II Men, Brett Butler, Natalie Cole, Michael Davis, Kenny Loggins and the Eastern High School Choir
Gala Date: October 30, 1993
Air Date: November 24, 1993
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
November 16 1993-January 2, 1994
SHAKESPEARE FOR MY FATHER
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production in association with John Clark
Written and conceived by Lynn Redgrave
Directed by John Clark
Featuring: Lynn Redgrave
February 1-27, 1994
THE FOREIGNER
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Larry Shue
Directed by David McKenna
Featuring: Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, Kevin Bailey, Kathleen Couser, Jonathan Lutz, Tim Mateer, Luther Williams
March 17-April 17, 1994
*HOT MIKADO-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Gilbert and Sullivan
Book & lyrics adapted by Rob Bowman
Directed and choreographed by David H. Bell
Musical arrangements and direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring Robin Baxter, Loretta Devine, Lawrence Hamilton, Ross Lehman, Paul Matsumoto, Susan Moniz, Victoria Platt, David Toney, Ben Wright
April 26-July 24, 1994
1992-1993
CAPTAINS COURAGEOUS: THE MUSICAL - Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Music by Frederick Freyer
Book and lyrics by Patrick Cook
Directed and choreographed by Graciela Daniele
Musical Direction by James Kowal
Orchestrations by Doug Besterman
Featuring John Dossett, Mark Aldrich, Larry Alexander, Don Chastain, Frank DiPasquale, Michael Greenwood, Walter Hudson, George Kmeck, Joseph Kolinski, Michael Mandell, John Mineo, Kel O’Neill, Ric Ryder, Michael Shelle, Richard Thomsen and John Leslie Wolfe
September 9-November 8, 1992
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
November 19 1992-January 3, 1993
THE GOOD TIMES ARE KILLING ME
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by Linda Barry
Directed by Mark Brokaw
Featuring Joey Allen, Bridget Barkan, Kevin Chamberlain, Tony Fair, Holly Felton, Harriett D. Foy, LaShonda Hunt, Lianne Kressin, Harry S. Murphy, Erin J. O’Brien, Peggy Poage, Marisa Stewart, James Stovall, Sybil Walker
February 3-March 21, 1993
FIVE GUYS NAMED MOE-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production in association with Cameron MacIntosh
Written by Clarke Peters, with Louis Jordan’s greatest hits
Directed and choreographed by Charles Augins
Featuring Michael Demby-Cain, Jeffrey C. Ferguson, Reggie Kelly, Monroe Kent III, Andre Montgomery
March 30-July 1993
1991-1992
*WILL ROGERS’ U.S.A.
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Staged and Adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
October 3-November 10, 1991
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
November 19-December 29, 1991
ZORA NEALE HURSTON: A Theatrical Biography
Written by Laurence Holder
Directed by Shirley Prendergast
Featuring: Elizabeth Van Dyke
January 28-February 23, 1992
CONRACK-Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Lyrics by Anne Croswell
Music by Lee Pockriss
Book by Granville Burgess
Choreography by Gregg Burge
Directed by Lonnie Price
Featuring: Patrick Cassidy, Joran Corneal, Tina Fabrique, Natalia Harris, Pamela Isaacs, Cory King, Nicole Leach, Ls Shayla Logan, Larry Marshall, Norman Matlock, Ella Mitchell, Kevin Reese, Myra Taylor, Evan Thompson, Baakari Wilder
February 29-April 26, 1992
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at FORD’S (Saluting Our Hispanic Heritage)
Featuring: Ricardo Montalban, Jimmy Smits, Ballet Hispanico, Vicki Carr, David Copperfield, Celia Cruz, Freddy Fender, Barry Manilow, Rita Moreno, Tito Puente, Eddie Torres Dancers, Paul Rodriguez, Arturo Sandoval, Ricky Van Shelton, Vanessa Williams, “Zed” and the Eastern High School Choir
Gala Date: June 14, 1992
Air Date: July 11, 1992
1990-1991
MOUNTAIN
Written by Douglas Scott
Directed by John Henry Davis
Featuring: Len Cariou, Heather Summerhayes, Ivar Brogger
September 29-October 28, 1990
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted and Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: John L. Cooke
November 20-December 30, 1990
BLACK EAGLES
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production in association with Crossroads Theatre Company
Written by Leslie Lee
Directed by Ricardo Khan
February 3-March 3, 1991
ABC-TV Special – A Celebration of Country at Ford’s Theatre
Featuring: Teri Garr, John Ritter, Morgan Freeman, Tammy Wynette, Clint Black, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Randy Travis, Lorrie Morgan, K.T. Oslin, Alabama, Alan Jackson, The Statlers, Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, Dan Menendez, Andy Andrews, Pendley & Wolz
Gala Date: March 10, 1991
*FOREVER PLAID-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written, Directed and Staged by Stuart Ross
Musical arrangements by James Raitt
Musical direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: Paul Binotto, Gregory Jbara, Neil Nash and Michael Winther
March 17-July 28, 1991
1989-1990
DON’T LET THIS DREAM GO-A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF MAHALIA JACKSON - Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and Written by Queen Ester Marrow
Music and lyrics by Queen Ester Marrow
Musical Supervision and Additional Music & Lyrics by Reginald Royal
Directed by Robert Kalfin
Featuring: Lynette G. DuPre’, Doug Eskew, Carl Hall and Gwen Stewart
October 10-November 12, 1989
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted and Directed by David H. Bell
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: Steve Crossley
November 21, 1989-January 1, 1990
SHEILA’S DAY-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production with Crossroads Theatre Company
Written by Duma Ndluvo
Directed by Mbongeni Ngema
Featuring: Ebony Jo Ann & Letta Mbulu
February 2-March 18, 1990
TBS-TV Special – A Festival at Ford’s
Featuring: John Forsythe, Valerie Harper, Tony Bennett, Dick Capri, Christopher, Roy Clark, The Gatlin Brothers, Janie Fricke, Jake Johannsen, Queen Ester Marrow, Jim McBride, Jim Morris, Diane Schuur, Tanya Tucker, Tommy Tune, Duke Ellington School Choir
Gala Date: March 25, 1990
Air Date: July 4, 1990
WOODIE GUTHRIE’S AMERICAN SONG-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Songs and writings by Woody Guthrie
Conceived and Directed by Peter Glazer
Featuring: Mimi Bessette, Liz Seneff Corrigan, David Lutken, James J. Stein, Jr., Scott Wakefield
March 30-June 17, 1990
GRANDMA MOSES, AN AMERICAN PRIMITIVE
Written by Stephen Pouliot
Directed by Howard Dallin
Featuring: Cloris Leachman
June 19-July 8, 1990
*SHEILA’S DAY-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production with Crossroads Theatre Company
Written by Duma Ndluvo
Directed by Mbongeni Ngema
Featuring: Ebony Jo Ann & Letta Mbulu
July 11-August 5, 1990
1988-1989
SAMMY CAHN: WORDS & MUSIC-Musical
Directed by Paul Blake
Musical Direction by Peter Daniels
Featuring: Sammy Cahn, Leola Jiles, Dennis A. McNeil, Anne Tofflemire
September 16-October 16, 1988
*JEEVES TAKES CHARGE
Conceived and adapted by Edward Duke
Directed by Gillian Lynne
Featuring: Edward Duke
October 21-November 13, 1988
*A CHRISTMAS CAROL
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by David H. Bell
Directed by Mikel Sarah Lambert
Music Direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: Steven Crossley
November 22 1988-January 1, 1989
GOD’S TROMBONES-Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by James Weldon Johnson
Directed by Woodie King, Jr.
Musical Direction by Steven Ford's Theatre
Featuring: Al Freeman, Jr., Theresa Merritt, Lex Monson, Trazana Beverley, Margaret Bell
January 29-February 26, 1989
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN CONCERT: ISN’T IT ROMANTIC-Musical
Staged by Christopher Chadman
Musical Direction by Joel Silberman
Featuring: Michael Feinstein
February 28-March 26, 1989
AMERICAN JUKE BOX-Musical
Directed and choreographed by Edward Love
Musical Direction by Larry Wallace
Featuring: Shelley Brandt, Sandy Flavin, Denise Morgan
March 31-August 13, 1989
1987-1988
A WOMAN OF INDEPENDENT MEANS-Musical
Written by Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey
Featuring: Barbara Rush
September 15-October 11, 1987
*GREATER TUNA
Written by Joe Sears, Jaston Williams and Ed Howard
Featuring: Joe Sears, Jaston Williams
October 13-November 8, 1987
The American Indian Dance Theatre
Directed and Staged by Hanay Geiogamah and Raoul Trujillo
Featuring: Candice Anderson, Joy Anderson, Bill Baker, Sidrick Baker, Saunders BearsTail, Jr., Lisa Ewack, Fabian Fontenelle, Troy Fontenelle, Philip Kaiyou, Chester Mahooty, Dorothy Mahooty, Arlie Neskahi, Adam Nordwall, Marty Pinnecoose, Edwin Preston, Charles Tailfeathers, Danell Tailfeathers, Morgan Tosee, Andy Vasquez, Tom Mauchahty Ware, Norwyn Wesley, Stacy Wesley, Jonathan WindyBoy, Lloyd Yellowbird
November 10 – 22, 1988
A Christmas CAROL (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted and directed by David H. Bell
Musical direction by Rob Bowman
Featuring: Steven Crossley
November 27, 1987 – January 3, 1988
Elmer Gantry - MUSICAL (World Premiere)
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by John Bishop
Music by Mel Marvin
Lyrics by Bob Satuloff, John Bishop, David H. Bell
Directed by David H. Bell
Featuring Casey Biggs & Sharon Scruggs
February 10 – June 17, 1988
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Harry Hamlin, Jane Seymour, James Stewart, Frankie Avalon, Sid Caesar, Rosemary Clooney, Clifton Davis, Fabian, Michael Feinstein, Joseph Gabriel, LaToya Jackson, Shirley Jones, Robert Klein, The Raspyni Brothers, The Williams Brothers, and the cast of ELMER GANTRY
Gala Date: June 24, 1988
1986 - 1987
IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL? – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Jeffrey Kindley
Music and lyrics by Craig Carnelia
Directed by David H. Bell
September 12 – October 26, 1986
*GREATER TUNA
Written by Joe Sears, Jaston Williams and Ed Howard
Directed by Ed Howard
Featuring: Joe Sears, Jaston Williams
October 28-November 30, 1986
The Chinese Golden Dragon Holiday Spectacular
December 16, 1986 – January 4, 1987
ALL MY SONS
Written by Arthur Miller
Directed by Arvin Brown
Featuring Richard Kiley
February 7 – March 15, 1987
Nunsense – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written and directed by Dan Goggin
Featuring Peggy Cass
March 12 – July 26, 1987
ABC-TV Special – A Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Bea Arthur, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Don Johnson, Sammy Cahn, Cab Calloway, Glen Campbell, David Copperfield, Norm Crosby, Alessandra Ferri, Maureen McGovern, Kevin McKenzie, Bob Nelson, David Sanborn
Gala Date: June 21, 1987
1985 – 1986
HANDY DANDY
Written by William Gibson
Featuring Audra Lindley and James Whitmore
September 21 – October 13, 1986
BARBARA COOK: A BROADWAY EVENING-Musical
Featuring Barbara Cook with Nicholas, Glover & Wray
October 15 – October 27, 1986
LITTLE ME – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Neil Simon
Music by Cy Coleman
Lyrics by Dorothy Fields
Directed by David H. Bell
November 1, 1985 – January 5, 1986
*Jeeves Takes Charge
Conceived and adapted by Edward Duke
Directed by Gillian Lynne
Featuring Edward Duke
February 4 – 23, 1986
Hot Mikado – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Gilbert & Sullivan
Adapted by Rob Bowman & David H. Bell
Directed by David H. Bell
March 18 – July 27, 1986
CBS-TV Special – A Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Richard Chamberlain, Jaclyn Smith, Louie Anderson, Paul Anka, Kathleen Battle, Victor Borge, Fernando Bujones, Lance Burton, Sandy Duncan, Joel Grey, Cynthia Harvey, Freddie Roman, Ross Stretton, Sylvia, Tommy Tune, and the cast of HOT MIKADO
Gala Date: June 8, 1986
1984 - 1985
*Will Rogers’ U.S.A.
Staged and adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
September 11 – 30, 1984
Greater Tuna
Written by Joe Sears and Jaston Williams in collaboration with Ed Howard
Directed by Ed Howard
Featuring Joe Sears and Jaston Williams
October 2 – November 11, 1984
*A Christmas Carol-Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen and Timothy Near
Featuring Jarlath Conroy
November 23 – December 30, 1984
Balletap USA – Musical
Featuring Maurice Hines and Mercedes Ellington
Guest artist Carmen de Lavallade
January 8 – 20, 1985
Ceremonies In Dark Old Men
Written by Lonnie Elder III
Featuring Negro Ensemble Company
Featuring Douglas Turner Ward and Robert Hooks
February 5 – March 3, 1985
*Godspell – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Stephen Schwartz
Conceived by John-Michael Tebelak
Directed by David H. Bell
CBS-TV Special – Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Linda Evans, John Forsythe, Ricardo Montalban, James Whitmore, Berosini’s Orangutans, David Copperfield, Robert Guillaume, Delores Hall with the cast of GODSPELL, Cynthia Harvey, Julia Migenes-Johnson, Patti LaBelle, Ronn Lucas, Featured performers of "Singin’ In The Rain"
Gala Date: June 2, 1985
1983 - 1984
Amen Corner – Musical (World premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Peter Udell and Philip Rose
Featuring Rhetta Hughes and Roger Robinson
September 8 – October 23, 1983
A Soldier's Play
Written by Charles Fuller
Featuring Negro Ensemble Company
October 27 – November 20, 1983
*A Christmas Carol –Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen and Timothy Near
Featuring Jarlath Conroy
November 30, 1983 – January 1, 1984
Jeeves Takes Charge
Conceived and adapted by Edward Duke
Directed by Gillian Lynne
Featuring Edward Duke
January 31 – February 12, 1984
Canterbury Tales
Featuring The New Vic Company
February 14 – 26, 1984
On Shiloh Hill – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and adapted by Bill Schustik in collaboration with Suzanne Benham
Choreography by Dennis Dennehy
Arrangements and Orchestrations by John McKinney
Directed by Byron F. Ringland
Featuring: Mitchell Anderson, Meg Bussert, Alan Campbell, Elmore James, Queen Esther Marrow, Bill Schustik, Paul Ukena, Jr., Marianna Allen, Gregory Ford, Lynne Goldsman, Anna Greene, David Heath, Randy Mullins, Nancy Nichols, Mary Robin Roth, Carleton Carpenter
March 28 – July 1, 1984
A Festival at Ford's – On Shiloh hill world premiere gala
Featuring: The cast of On Shiloh Hill (Not televised)
Gala Date: April 8, 1984
1982– 1983
One Thousand Years of Jazz-Musical
Featuring: The Legends of Jazz, The Original Hoofers and Deborah Woodson
September 9 – October 10, 1982
Metromedia-TV Special – A Festival at Ford's
Featuring: E. G. Marshall, Grace Bumbry, David Copperfield, Michael Davis, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers Band, Natalia Makarova and Denys Ganio, Liza Minelli, Wayne Newton, Lou Rawls, Ben Vereen, with the cast of "1000 Years of Jazz" and the U.S. Army Chorus
Gala Date: September 25, 1982
CHURCHILL (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Samuel Gallu
Featuring Roy Dotrice
October 12 – November 14, 1982
*A Christmas Carol-Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen and Timothy Near
Featuring Jarlath Conroy
November 26, 1982 – January 2, 1983
Mass Appeal
Written by Bill Davis
Featuring Milo O’Shea and Adam Redfield
March 8 – April 10, 1983
Dancin’ In the Street – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and written by Sheldon Goldberg
Directed and choreographed by Billy Wilson
April 17 – June 19, 1983
1981– 1982
Black Nativity – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Langston Hughes
September 11 – November 1, 1981
*A Christmas Carol-Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen & Timothy Near
Featuring Jarlath Conroy
November 27, 1981 – January 3, 1982
Diversions & Delights
Written by John Gay
Featuring Vincent Price
January 11 – January 31, 1982
The Orphan's Revenge – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Gene Casey & Suzanne Buhrer
February 12 – May 16, 1982
1980– 1981
Holy Ghosts
Written by Romulus Linney
September 30 – October 12, 1980
Steps In Time (The American Dance Machine) - Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and directed by Lee Theodore
Featuring Janet Eilber, Denny Shearer, Francois Szony
October 29 - November 16, 1980
*A Christmas Carol – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen & Timothy Near
Featuring John Cullum
December 5, 1980 – January 3, 1981
I’m Getting My Act Together and Taking It On the Road – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Nancy Ford & Gretchen Cryer
Featuring Louisa Flaningam, Ralph Byers
January 18 – June 21, 1981
NBC-TV Special - A Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Tony Bennett, George Benson, Lynda Carter, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, David Copperfield, Christopher Cross, Rodney Dangerfield, Dom DeLuise, Peter Gennaro, Andy Gibb, Lena Horne, Loretta Lynn, Victoria Principal, Jack Klugman, Natalia Makarova, Luciano Pavorotti, Itzhak Perlman, Juliet Prowse, Twyla Tharp, Andy Williams
Gala Date: March 21, 1981
1979– 1980
NBC-TV Special – A CELEBRATION OF COUNTRY MUSIC
Featuring: Lynn Anderson, Senator Robert Byrd & The Autumn Harvest, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, Freddy Fender, Larry Gatlin, Tom T. Hall, Loretta Lynn, Ronnie Milsap, Bill Monroe & The Bluegrass Boys, The Oak Ridge Boys, Dolly Parton, Eddie Rabbitt, Charlie Rich, Ray Stevens, The Statler Brothers, Mel Tillis, Dottie West, Tammy Wynette
Gala Date: October 2, 1979
The Shadow Box
Written by Michael Cristofer
Featuring Ron Bishop
October 9 – 28, 1979
*Will Rogers’ U.S.A.
Staged & directed by: Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
October 31 – November 25, 1979
A Christmas Carol - Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Rae Allen & Timothy Near
Featuring Ron Bishop
December 4, 1979 – January 6, 1980
Mr. Lincoln
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Herbert Mitgang
Featuring Roy Dotrice
January 14 – February 17, 1980
Day By Day – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived by Ernie Zulia & Frank Bartolucci
Music & lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
February 4 – April 6, 1980
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Directed by James D. Waring
Choreographed by Wayne Cilento
Musical Direction & Special Vocal and Instrumental Arrangements by Kevin J. McCarthy
Featuring: Patrick A’Hearn, Ed Bourgeois, Don Brenner, Celia K. Clark, Denise Correa, Blaise Corrigan, Joe Dawson, Tony Elliot, Michael Garcia, Brad Gettelfinger, Jessica Guy, Weston Harris, Ayl G. Mack, Debra Spurlock McCarthy, Joe McGuire, Mark Murphy, Joseph P. Normile, Brian O’Connor, Eric Pierpoint, Rosalyn Rahn, Jann Simpson, Carolyn Swift, Aetna Thompson-Collins, Doug Voet
April 23 – September 28, 1980
1978– 1979
Bullshot Crumond
Written by Ron House, Diz White, Alan Shearman, John Neville-Andrews
Featuring Alan Shearman, Ron House, Brandis Kemp, Diz White, Mark Blankfield
September 25 – October 29, 1978
Woody GUTHRIE (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Developed by Tom Taylor
Featuring Tom Taylor
November 6 - 26, 1978
Quentin Crisp
Featuring Quentin Crisp
November 28 – December 3, 1978
Lady Lily – Musical
Written by Marge Greene
Music & Lyrics Harold Beebe, Jr.
Featuring Tessie O’Shea
December 17, 1978 – January 7, 1979
Storyville – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Ed Bullins
Music & lyrics Mildred Kayden
Featuring Ira Hawkins, Edye Byrde, Yahee
January 27 – March 4, 1979
Festival – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Stephen Downs & Randal Martin
Featuring Gregory Harrison, Bill Hutton, Maureen McNamara
March 22 – April 29, 1979
GROUCHO (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Lewis Stadlen & Denny Martin Flinn
Featuring Lewis J. Stadlen
May 8 – June 3, 1979
1977– 1978
Diversions & Delights
Written by John Gay
Featuring Vincent Price
October 11 – 30; November 8 – 13, 1977
Hold Me!
Written by Jules Feiffer
November 15 – December 11, 1977
Max Morath, The Ragtime Years
Staged by Neal Kenyon & Max Morath
Featuring Max Morath
December 21, 1977 – January 15, 1978
NBC-TV Special – Tenth Anniversary Celebration
Featuring: James Whitmore, Vincent Price, Bill Schustik, Delores Hall, Billy Dee Williams, Linda Hopkins, Henry Fonda, John Houseman, Lorne Greene, Alexis Smith and The American Dance Machine
Gala Date: January 29, 1978
The American Dance Machine – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and directed by Lee Theodore
Featuring Swen Swenson, Janet Eilber, Barry Preston, Harold Cromer
February 2 – March 5; April 4 – 30, 1978
*Will Rogers’ U.S.A.
Staged and adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
March 6 – April 2, 1978
Mother Courage
Written by Bertolt Brecht
Featuring Mary Lou Rosato and The Acting Company
May 2 – 6, 1978
Robber Bridegroom – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Alfred Uhry
Music by Robert Waldman
Featuring Tom Wopat, Rhonda Coullet
May 14 – June 25, 1978
1976– 1977
*Your Arms Too Short to Box With God – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and directed by Vinnette Carroll
Music & lyrics by Alex Bradford
September 7 – October 17, 1976
Vanities
Written by Jack Heifner
October 19 – November 14, 1976
The All Night Strut! – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and directed by Fran Charnas
Musical Orchestration & Dance Arrangements by Luther Henderson
Vocal Arrangements & Musical Direction by William Roy
Featuring Michael Davis, Nedra Dixon, Barbara Heuman, Anthony White, Melanie Adam, Leslie Dockery, Brenda Holmes, Bobby Longbottom, Jack Magradey, Liz Morris, Charles Neal, Eric Riley, Christina Saffran, Jeff Spielman, Michelle Stubbs, and Gary Sullivan
November 20 –1976 – July 10, 1977
1975 - 1976
Are You Now Or Have You Ever Been?
Written by Eric Bentley
September 19 – October 26, 1975
Your Arms Too Short to Box With God – Musical (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Conceived and directed by Vinnette Carroll
Music & Lyrics by Alex Bradford
Featuring Delores Hall, William Thomas, Jr.
October 31, 1975 – March 28, 1976
I Have A DREAM (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Adapted by Josh Greenfeld
Conceived and directed by Robert Greenwald
Featuring Billy Dee Williams
April 1 – April 25, 1976
ELEANOR (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Arlene Stadd
Featuring Eileen Heckart
April 28 – June 27, 1976
Forge of Freedom – Musical (World Premiere)
Written by John Allen
Lyrics by Annette Leisten
Music by Shelly Markham
July 7 – July 18, 1976
1974 – 1975
Me and Bessie – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production in association with Center Theatre Group of Los Angeles
Written by Will Holt & Linda Hopkins
Directed by Robert Greenwald
Musical Coordination by Tony Berg
Featuring: Linda Hopkins, Lester Wilson, Gerri Dean, Howlett Smith
November 1 – November 17, 1974
City Center Acting Company
Love's Labor Lost
The Taming of the Shrew
Featuring Patty LuPone, Mary-Joan Negro, Mary Lou Rosato, Kevin Kline
November 19 – December 1, 1974
Rosalind Russell (A Tribute)
Featuring Rosalind Russell
December 3 – December 8, 1974
Linda Hopkins
Featuring Linda Hopkins
December 10 – December 31, 1974
Gabrielle – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Book by Jose’ Quintero
Original Lyrics & Adaptations by Jason Darrow
Directed by Jose’ Quintero
Musical Direction by William Cox
Choreography by Dan Siretta
Music by Gilbert Becaud
Featuring: Tammy Grimes, Marilyn Cooper, Laurence Guittard, Robin Hoff, Danny Meehan, David Sabin
January 7 – 26, 1975
Nash At Nine
Written by Ogden Nash
Music by Milton Rosenstock
Conceived and directed by Martin Charnin
Featuring: Craig Stevens, John Stratton, Jane Summerhays, Harvey Evans
January 28 – February 9, 1975
The Portable Pioneer & Prairie Show - Musical
A Ford’s Theatre Society Production
Written by David Chambers & Mel Marvin
Musical direction by Mel Marvin
Directed by David Chambers
Choreography by Dennis Nahat
Featuring: Terry Hinz, Prudence Wight Holmes, John Long, Ingrid Helga Sonnichsen, Lyle Swedeen, Donovan Sylvest, Mary Wright
February 12 – March 16, 1975
Light Up the Sky
Written by Moss Hart
Featuring Vivian Blaine, Sam Levine, Celeste Holm, Kay Medford
March 18 – April 13, 1975
Give ‘Em Hell Harry! (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Samuel Gallu
Featuring James Whitmore
April 15 – May 4, 1975
Diamond Studs – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Jim Wann
Music & lyrics by Jim Wann & Bland Simpson
May 8 – July 20, 1975
1973 – 1974
American REVOLUTION (World Premiere)
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Created by Paul Sills
September 21 – October 14, 1973
El Capitan – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production in association with the Goodspeed Opera House
Book by Charles Klein
Music by John Philip Sousa
Lyrics by Thos Frost & John Philip Sousa
Musical Direction by Lynn Crigler
Directed and Choreographed by Neal Kenyon
Featuring John Cullum, Art Wallace, Bruce MacKay, Bonnie Schon, David Chaney, Lynn Brinker, Nancy Seabold, Harrison Somers, Robert Alton, Jeffrey Andrews, Joan Carvelle, Francesca Della Porta, Lohn La Motta, Susan Marchand, Abe Morales, Carolann Page, Pamela Pressman, Michelle Rosenberg, Patrick Quinn, Spencer Smith
November 20 – December 30, 1973
Funny Face – Musical
Written by George & Ira Gershwin
Featuring Susan Watson, Tony Tanner
January 2, 1974 – January 20, 1974
*Will Rogers’ U.S.A.
Staged and adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring James Whitmore
January 22 – February 10, 1974
Oh Coward!
Words and Music by Noel Coward
Musical Direction and Arrangements by Rene Wiegert
Devised and Directed by Roderick Cook
Featuring Barbara Cason, Roderick Cook, Jamie Ross
February 19 – March 17, 1974
City Center Acting Company
Featuring Patty LuPone, Mary-Joan Negro, Mary Lou Rosato, Kevin Kline
Scapin
The Three Sisters
Beggars Opera
March 18 – April 14, 1974
*Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Micki Grant
Conceived & directed by Vinnette Carroll
April 18 – September 15, 1974
1972 – 1973
Godspell – Musical
A Ford´s Theatre Society Production
Written by Stephen Schwartz
Conceived by John-Michael Tebelak
April 6, 1972 – September 16, 1973
1971 – 1972
Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope – Musical (World Premiere)
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Written by Micki Grant
Conceived & directed by Vinnette Carroll
Featuring Micki Grant, Bobby Hill, Alex Bradford, Arlene Rolant
September 15-October 10, 1971
Mother Earth
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Book & Lyrics by Ron Thronson
Music by Toni Shearer
Choreography by Steve Merritt
Musical direction by Toni Shearer
Directed by Sid Grossfeld
Featuring: Patti Austin, Christine Avila, Elaine Bankston, Ron deSalvo, Michael Devin, Joel Kimmel, Peter Jason, Tip Kelley, Carol Kristy, Arlene Parness
October 20-November 7, 1971 & November 14-27, 1971
NBC-TV Special – Festival at Ford's
Featuring: Bob Hope, Henry Mancini, Jonathan Winters, Melba Moore, Raymond Burr, Charlie Pride, Pat Boone and Family, Carol Channing
Gala Date: November 12, 1971
Air Date: November 15, 1971 10:00 pm
Bob & Ray, The Two & Only
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Written by Bob Elliot & Ray Goulding
Directed by Joseph Hardy
Featuring: Bob Elliott & Ray Goulding
November 30-December 19, 1971
Echoes of the Left Bank – Musical (World Premiere)
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Staged by Nick Denoia & Ken Berman
Featuring the music of Jacques Brel, Gilbert Becaud, Charles Aznavour & Michel LeGrand
January 4-23, 1972
Mark Twain Tonight
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Featuring Hal Holbrook
January 28-30, 1972
Moby Dick
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Written by Herman Melville
Featuring Jack Aranson
February 1-13, 1972
An Unpleasant Evening with H. L. MENCKEN (World Premiere)
Under the direction of Ford’s Theatre Society as the “Showcase Theatre”
Adapted by Paul Shyre
Featuring David Wayne
March 7-26, 1972
1970 - 1971
Will Rogers’ U.S.A. (World Premiere)
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Adapted and Directed by Paul Shyre
Featuring: James Whitmore
September 14-October 4, 1970
Arsenic & Old Lace
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by Joseph Kesselring
Directed by Theodore Mann
Featuring: Peter Bosche’, Stockard Channing, Marlow Ferguson, Walter Flanagan, Jack Fletcher, Stefan Gierasch, Paul Haney, Edward Herrmann, Cynthia Latham, Alexander Reed, Hansford Rowe, Pamela Simpson, Jerrold Ziman
October 9-November 15, 1970
NBC–TV Special – Festival at Ford's: A Salute to America’s Music
Featuring: Andy Williams, James Stewart, Pearl Bailey, The Supremes, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Bobbie Gentry, Henry Mancini, Dionne Warwick
Gala Date: November 18, 1970
*Max Morath at the Turn of the Century
Featuring Max Morath
November 27-December 13, 1970
John & ABIGAIL (World Premiere)
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by William Gibson, Salome Jens, Michael Higgins
Directed by Theodore Mann
Music and Musical Direction by John Duffy
Movement by Peter Maloney
Featuring: Salome Jens, Michael Higgins, Daniel Cohen, Julia Fremon, Baxter Harris, Jayne Haynes, Karen Liswood, Michael Pendrey, Ellen Schindler, Roger Sewall, Sylvia Soares
January 7-March 7, 1971
You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Music and Lyrics by Clark Gesner
Book by John Gordon
Musical Staging by Patricia Birch
Musical Supervision Arrangements and Additional Material by Joseph Raposo
Directed by Joseph Hardy
Featuring: Nancy Fox, Douglas Houston, Barnaby Millard, Trip Plymale, Chip Zien, Carol Ziske
April 16-September 12, 1971
1969 – 1970
Ah! Wilderness
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by Eugene O’Neill
Directed by Theodore Mann
Featuring: Larry Gates, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Alex Wipf, Tony Schwab, Lucy Saroyan, Frank Coleman, IV, Stefan Gierasch, Laurinda Barrett, Hansford Rowe, Brenda Currin, William Dolive, Peggy Pope, Camilla Ritchey, Robert Legionaire, Henry Calvert
October 9-23, 1969
Iphigenia In Aulis
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by Euripides
English Version by Minos Volanakis
Music by Marvin David Levy
Directed by Randall Brooks
Featuring: Jane White, Harris Yulin, Roderick Cook, Christopher Wines, Charles Herrick, Dan Mason, Patricia Bower, Jeremy Luban, Margaret Cathell, Maryce Carter, Carol Emshoff, Sarina Grant, Shirley Luban, Julie Prince, Marsha Sheiness, Linda Simon, Joanna Walton, Edmund Day,Joseph Sofi
November 27, 1969-January 4, 1970
Max Morath at the Turn of the Century
Written by and Featuring Max Morath
January 20-February 15, 1970
The Fantasticks – Musical
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Book and Lyrics by Tom Jones
Music by Harvey Schmidt
Directed by William Francisco
Musical Direction by David Effron
Featuring: William Larsen, Stephen Douglass, Peggy Clark, Larry Small, Gwyllum Evans, Guy Grasso, George Curley, Richard Lederer, Karen Goldberg, Douglas Jones, Joseph Willens
February 20-April 26, 1970 & May 25-September 25, 1970
1968-1969
A Moon for the Misbegotten
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by Eugene O’Neill
Directed by Theodore Mann
Featuring: Salome Jens, Mitchell Ryan, Stephan Gierasch, Jack Davidson, Jack Kehoe
January 28-March 9, 1969
Trumpets of the Lord
Circle in the Square by arrangement with Ford’s Theatre Society
Written by James Weldon Johnson
March 11-April 20, 1969
1968-First Season
Gala Opening/CBS-TV Special-Inaugural evening
Featuring: Helen Hayes, Henry Fonda, Robert Ryan, Andy Williams, Fredric March, Harry Belafonte, Patricia Brooks, Odetta, Richard Crenna, Carmen De Lavallade, Nina Foch, Jean Thielemans
Gala Date: January 30, 1968
John Brown's Body
Under the direction of the National Repertory Theatre
Written by Stephen Vincent Benet
February 12, 1968
Comedy of Errors
Under the direction of the National Repertory Theatre
Written by William Shakespeare
March, 1968
She Stoops to Conquer
Under the direction of the National Repertory Theatre
Written by Oliver Goldsmith
April, 1968
*Encore Performance