Synopsis
Franklin's Apprentice
Published by Dramatists Play Service
5 Male 2 Female
"I dare you, lightning, strike! I am not afraid!"
Conflict, comedy and dazzling special effects highlight this tale of an American hero's struggle to tame heaven's own power - electricity
Long before the Declaration of Independence, Ben Franklin was a scientist obsessed with the mastery of "electrical fire" in the face of opposition from church and family
When he rescues a wounded boy from a cruel apprenticeship, the boy in turn teaches Franklin the secrets of "the giant," and together they confront ignorance with courage and the power of a questioning mind
William, Franklin's conservative son, sides with the local clergy who declare that redirecting lightning is "interfering with God's plan"
But Franklin, his young apprentice and his daughter, Sally, set out to prove that lightning can be harnessed to protect the people of Philadelphia
Blending historical fiction with contemporary resonance, this thrilling play for families culminates on a stormy night with the crack of thunder, a blinding light and an experiment that changed the world!
REVIEWS
"Engrossing and entertaining ... skillfully wraps scientific inquiry, romance, family conflict and Frankliniana" ~ Philadelphia Inquirer
" ... a top drawer piece of theatre. It held the audience completely rapt, cheering every scene and wanting more" ~ Tennessean