By Powerful New Musical Celebrating Lincoln and Douglass Opens February 18, 2025
La Jolla Playhouse proudly announces the world premiere of 3 Summers of Lincoln, a new musical featuring a book by Joe DiPietro, lyrics by Daniel J. Watts and Joe DiPietro, music by Crystal Monee Hall, choreography by Jon Rua and Daniel J. Watts, and directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley. The production will run from February 18 to April 6, 2025, at the Playhouse’s Mandell Weiss Theatre.
Tickets and information are available at lajollaplayhouse.org.
An Epic Story of Friendship and a Nation Divided
Set during the summers of 1862–1864, 3 Summers of Lincoln tells the inspirational true story of the historic friendship between President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. As the Civil War threatens to tear the nation apart, three pivotal conversations between these two iconic leaders help shape a vision of unity, freedom, and equality.
With a soaring score blending gospel, R&B, and anthemic musical theater, 3 Summers of Lincoln is poised to be an unforgettable, must-see world premiere.
Christopher Ashley shared:
“It is an honor to collaborate with this stellar cast and creative team on a musical that spotlights a history-changing friendship through an extraordinary lens and soaring original music.”
Meet the Cast and Creative Team
The all-star cast includes:
- Eric Anderson as George B. McClellan
- Carmen Cusack as Mary Todd Lincoln
- Quentin Earl Darrington as Frederick Douglass
- Ivan Hernandez as President Abraham Lincoln
- John-Andrew Morrison as William Slade
- Saycon Sengbloh as Elizabeth Keckley
- Plus a full ensemble and swings featuring Geno Carr, Calvin L’mont Cooper, Alaman Diadhiou, Fernell Hogan, Bets Malone, and more.
Creative Team Highlights:
- Scenic Design: Derek McLane
- Costume Design: Toni-Leslie James
- Lighting Design: Amanda Zieve
- Sound Design: Jonathan Deans and Mike Tracey
- Projection Design: David Bengali and Hana S. Kim
- Wig and Hair Design: Matthew Armentrout
- Music Supervision: Wilkie Ferguson
- Music Direction: Victoria Theodore
- Orchestrations: Michael Thurber
- Sensitivity Specialist: Ann C. James
Casting is by The Telsey Office/Rachel Hoffman, CSA, and Jacole Kitchen.
Ticket Information
- Dates: February 18 – April 6, 2025
- Location: Mandell Weiss Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse
- Tickets: Available online at lajollaplayhouse.org
Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary musical about leadership, unity, and history — told through the lens of two of America’s most transformative figures.
What is ‘3 Summers of Lincoln’ about?
‘3 Summers of Lincoln’ is a new musical that explores the historic friendship between President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass during the summers of 1862–1864, highlighting their pivotal conversations during the Civil War.
When and where is ‘3 Summers of Lincoln’ being performed?
The production runs from February 18 to April 6, 2025, at the Mandell Weiss Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse.
Who is in the cast of ‘3 Summers of Lincoln’?
The cast includes Ivan Hernandez as Abraham Lincoln, Quentin Earl Darrington as Frederick Douglass, Carmen Cusack as Mary Todd Lincoln, Eric Anderson, Saycon Sengbloh, John-Andrew Morrison, and more.
Who created the music and lyrics for the show?
The music is by Crystal Monee Hall, with lyrics by Daniel J. Watts and Joe DiPietro. The book is also by Joe DiPietro.
Where can I buy tickets for ‘3 Summers of Lincoln’?
Tickets are available online through the official La Jolla Playhouse website at lajollaplayhouse.org.