Gem Radio Theater | Glens Falls | June 30, 2026
- Crandall Library 251 Glen Street Glens Falls, New York, 12801 United States (map)
Celebrate America’s 250th With Gem Radio Theatre in Glens Falls
Revolutionary history takes the stage at Crandall Library.
Independence Hall in Philadelpha.
As the Adirondacks prepare to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness arrives at Crandall Library in Glens Falls on Tuesday, June 30, at 6:30 pm. Presented by Gem Radio Theatre, this original historical stage production blends live theatre, first-person storytelling, and authentic Colonial voices into a memorable kickoff to the Independence Day holiday.
For visitors exploring the southern Adirondacks—or locals looking for a thoughtful way to begin the week's patriotic celebrations—this performance offers something refreshingly different from parades and fireworks.
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Experience the Revolution through the people who lived it.
Rather than retelling familiar history from a modern perspective, Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness allows the people who shaped America's founding to speak for themselves.
Written by Adirondack essayist Edward Collins, the production draws from more than 125 archival documents, including letters, speeches, journals, and contemporary accounts. The story unfolds through the memories of Revolutionary War veteran Andrus Wever, founder of present-day Wevertown, whose reflections connect Adirondack history with the birth of the nation.
Along the way, audiences meet well-known figures such as Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Abigail Adams, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Paine, while also discovering lesser-known individuals whose contributions deserve renewed recognition—including Mercy Otis Warren, Sarah Bradlee Fulton, Polly Cooper of the Oneida Nation, Catherine Macaulay, and Crispus Attucks.
Revolutionary war fighters.
Gem Radio Theatre brings history to life in the Adirondacks.
Based in Johnsburg, Gem Radio Theatre has earned a loyal following for its distinctive blend of historical storytelling and live performance.
Unlike many community theatre groups, every member of the ensemble is an Adirondack resident. Past productions have ranged from The Great Adirondack Stagecoach Robbery and The Lone Ranger Rides Again to It's a Wonderful Life, seasonal radio dramas, historical walking tours, and cemetery performances portraying local historical figures.
That deep connection to the region gives every production an unmistakably Adirondack character.
Why Crandall Library is the perfect venue.
Libraries have long served as places where history is preserved, shared, and debated, making Crandall Library an especially fitting setting for this performance.
Instead of reading about the American Revolution, audiences will hear the words of the people who lived it—performed live in an intimate setting where every voice carries weight.
It's a reminder that America's story wasn't written solely in Philadelphia. Its ideals eventually reached mountain communities like those throughout today's Adirondacks, where veterans, settlers, and families helped shape the nation's next chapter.
ADK Taste recommendation.
Arrive 20–30 minutes early to find parking and settle in before the performance begins. If time allows, make an evening of it by exploring downtown Glens Falls, where you'll find locally owned restaurants, cafés, and shops within an easy walk of Crandall Library.
Who should attend?
This production will appeal to history enthusiasts, theatre lovers, lifelong learners, and families looking for a meaningful way to celebrate America's Semiquincentennial.
Visitors spending Independence Day week in Lake George, Warrensburg, Chestertown, or elsewhere in the southern Adirondacks will also find this an easy evening excursion before the region's busy Fourth of July festivities begin.
Event details.
What:Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
Presented by: Gem Radio Theatre
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Crandall Library, 251 Glen St., Glens Falls, NY
Visitors are encouraged to check the Gem Radio Theatre, the Crandall Library website or the Facebook page for the latest event information and updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness?
An original historical stage production by Gem Radio Theatre commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence using the authentic words of Revolutionary-era Americans.
Where is the performance?
Crandall Library, 251 Glen St., Glens Falls, New York.
When is the event?
Tuesday, June 30, 2026, beginning at 6:30 pm.
Is this appropriate for families?
Yes. Anyone interested in American history, theatre, and the Revolutionary era should enjoy the performance.
Is this part of America's 250th anniversary celebration?
Yes. The production is part of Gem Radio Theatre's series of performances commemorating the Semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence.
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