
(WAYNE, NJ) -- The Wayne Community Center is once again opening its doors to local audiences following a lengthy closure, and the Theater League of Clifton will help mark its return with a production of the Tony Award-winning musical 1776, one of the first major theatrical productions scheduled at the facility since its reopening.
Directed by Maren Sugarman, the musical will be presented November 13–15, 2026, at the Wayne Community Center (1 Pike Drive) in Wayne, New Jersey. The production comes during a particularly fitting year, as the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of its independence.
The center had been closed since July 29, when a basement electrical fire caused significant damage and filled portions of the building with smoke. Although everyone was safely evacuated, the damage required an extended shutdown while repairs were completed.
The reopening offers the Theater League of Clifton an opportunity to welcome audiences back to the venue with a musical that explores a defining chapter in American history. Featuring music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and a book by Peter Stone, 1776 debuted on Broadway in 1969 and received three Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Tickets are $30, or $25 for seniors and students. Group rates are available for groups of 10 or larger. Tickets are available for purchase online or reserved by calling (973)-928-7668.
Founded in 2005, the Theater League of Clifton is a nonprofit community organization dedicated to fostering an appreciation of the arts through theatrical performances, providing quality entertainment for audiences of all ages and creating opportunities for members of the community to participate in live theater.
1776 is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.


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