The world of theater is about to get a little more fantastical and a lot more Philadelphia-centric with the upcoming production of "Franklin's Key" by the Pig Iron Theatre Company. This comedic sci-fi play takes a unique approach to the city's rich history and the legendary Ben Franklin, inviting audiences to explore an alternative reality where his scientific prowess is not just myth but a hidden truth.
The play's co-artistic director, Dan Rothenberg, and co-writer Robert Quillen Camp draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including TV shows like "Alias," "The X-Files," and "Stranger Things," which explore the mysteries of secret societies and hidden technologies. But they also look to their own families for creative fuel, with Camp's teenagers and Rothenberg's child providing a fresh perspective on the story. The lead characters in the play are two adolescent prodigies, siblings who stumble upon a secret scientific society in Philadelphia and must save it from dark forces seeking to exploit its power.
"Franklin's Key" is a deliberate departure from Pig Iron's experimental theater roots, aiming for a more accessible and warm tone. Rothenberg explains, "After decades in experimental theater, we wanted to create something that felt familiar and inviting, a play that our kids and their friends could enjoy. We wanted to pay homage to the city and the myth of Ben Franklin, not the historical figure but his enduring place in popular culture. He was a scientist, but also a champion of the arts and civil society, and his legacy is particularly relevant today."
The play incorporates several Philadelphia landmarks, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, City Hall, Christ Church Burial Ground, and the Wanamaker Organ, as portals to this sci-fi/historical adventure. The production also features impressive special effects designed by Skylar Fox, an Obie Award-winning designer known for his work on "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" on Broadway. The musical score is composed by Rosie Langabeer, adding another layer of richness to the production.
"Franklin's Key" promises to be a unique and captivating experience, blending historical references with sci-fi elements and a touch of humor. It's a testament to the creativity and innovation that Pig Iron Theatre Company brings to the stage, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar figure and a city's rich history. Audiences can expect to be transported to a world where science, mystery, and imagination intertwine, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of Ben Franklin.
