2024/25 Season

3 Summers of Lincoln

World-Premiere Musical

3 Summers of Lincoln

FEB 18 – MAR 23, 2025 | Mandell Weiss Theatre

Book by Joe DiPietro

Lyrics by Daniel J. Watts & Joe DiPietro

Music by Crystal Monee Hall

Co-Choreography by Jon Rua and Daniel J. Watts

Directed by Christopher Ashley

Change the conversation. Change the world.

This gripping new musical tells the inspirational story of one of the most important friendships in our nation’s history, and a divided country coming together.

Summer, 1862. President Abraham Lincoln must find a way to end the Civil War. Enter powerful abolitionist Frederick Douglass. If he can meet Lincoln face to face, he can help the president cement a vision of the future that ends slavery along with the war — all while preserving the Union. Just three meetings took place between the two men — pivotal conversations between two brilliant leaders that shaped the course of history.

This is the sixth Playhouse collaboration between Joe DiPietro and Christopher Ashley (including the hit shows Babbitt, Diana and Memphis). Composer Crystal Monee Hall and lyricist Daniel J. Watts complete the multi-award-winning creative team.

With an epic original score blending gospel, R&B, powerhouse anthems and Broadway, 3 Summers of Lincoln is the next unmissable, spectacular world premiere from La Jolla Playhouse.


Discover More

Watch a chat about the shows
Artistic Director Christopher Ashley and Artistic Producing Director Eric Keen-Louie talk about each show and why they are excited to share them with Playhouse audiences.


Ticket Information

Single tickets are now on sale. La Jolla Playhouse is the only authorized ticket seller for this production.

First Look (previews): Feb 18 – Mar 1
Weeks 3 – 5: Mar 4 – Mar 23

‘First Look’ performances are the first week of each show before opening night. These lower-priced tickets allow you to experience the show while the creative team continues polishing and making changes. This stage is vital for the show’s evolution, offering the team a chance to view it from the audience’s perspective. Playhouse staff provide a brief introduction, and the creative team may be in the audience near you taking notes.

Content Guidance
This world premiere work is currently being developed, and more information about its content will be available closer to the run dates. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. Read about our age recommendations here. If you have any questions about content or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.

Ticket Discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $30 tickets in Area 3. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call Patron Services at (858) 550-1010 for more info.


Audience Engagement Events

Talkback Tuesdays
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tue, Feb 25 and Mar 4 after the 7:30pm show

Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sun, Mar 16 after the 1pm show


Useful Information


Parking
UC San Diego operates the Theatre District Parking Structure and requires a valid parking pass to be displayed at all times. La Jolla Playhouse Subscribers should use their physical parking permits displayed on their driver’s side dashboard. Ticket buyers can pay for parking on-site with the pay stations located on each floor of the structure or digitally with the ParkMobile app Find all parking information here.

Health and Safety
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. Please visit our health and safety page here for the latest information.

Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tue – Sun). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reserve your table on OpenTable or by phone on (858) 638-7778. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Click here to view the menu

Concessions
Concessions opens 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.


Access Performance

ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat Mar 8, 2pm

The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.

Sensory Friendly Guide
Read the Sensory Friendly Guide for the Weiss Theatre here


Production Sponsors

Sheri L. Jamieson
Laurents / Hatcher Foundation
Bank of America
La Cuisine
Show Imaging
Recipient of an Edgerton Foundation New Play Award

Cast & Creators
  • Creators
  • Cast
Image of Joe DiPietro Joe DiPietro Book / Lyrics
Image of Daniel J. Watts Daniel J. Watts Lyrics / Choreography
Image of Crystal Monee Hall Crystal Monee Hall Music
Image of Jon Rua Jon Rua Choreography
Image of Christopher Ashley Christopher Ashley Direction
  • Eric Andersonas George B. McClellan
  • Carmen Cusackas Mary Todd Lincoln
  • Quentin Earl Darringtonas Frederick Douglass
  • Ivan Hernandezas President Abraham Lincoln
  • John-Andrew Morrisonas William Slade
  • Saycon Sengblohas Elizabeth Keckley
  • Geno CarrEnsemble
  • Alaman DiadhiouEnsemble
  • Fernell HoganEnsemble
  • Jana KrumholtzEnsemble
  • Bets MaloneEnsemble
  • Magic MosleyEnsemble
  • Kent D’Angelo James OvershownEnsemble
  • Noah RiveraEnsemble
  • Naomi Tiana RodgersEnsemble
  • Evan RuggieroEnsemble
  • Nathan SalstoneEnsemble
  • Johnathan TannerEnsemble
  • Blake ZelesnikarEnsemble
  • Van AngeloSwing
  • DeShawn Travis BowensSwing
  • Michael Samarie GeorgeSwing
  • Michael Allan HaggertySwing
  • Jaxon SmithSwing
Venue Info

Mandell Weiss Theatre

The Mandell Weiss Theatre is a 492-seat proscenium arch theatre, with two front rows of removable seats allowing for a greater stage length. The theatre also maintains an upstairs wooden deck for parties, receptions and outdoor gatherings, and a small outdoor amphitheatre for pre-show entertainment.

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