[Update: This event is postponed.]

The Ticonderoga Historical Society will open its program year on Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. with “The Singing of the Green, The Irish in American Musical Theater.”  The program takes place at the Hancock House, 6 Moses Circle, Ticonderoga and is free to the public.

“It will be a bit past St. Patrick’s Day,” said program presenter Diane O’Connor.  “But this program offers a lot of fun, some interesting information about the evolution of our musical theater traditions and – best of all – it features some memorable music familiar to all.”

O’Connor notes that as early as the 1840s, Irish-born actors and comedians were entertaining audiences across the United States.  Soon after came the stereotypical Irish “Paddy” character that parodied the many Irish immigrants arriving on American shores.

The enduring success of early American musical theater is due to those waves of newcomers, including notable Irish-Americans such as George M. Cohan.  Subsequent groups of immigrants arriving from Europe added their own touches to this uniquely American genre of entertainment.

The program is free; however, reservations are encouraged.  seats may be reserved by calling 518-585-7868 or via e-mail to tihistory@bridgepoint1com.  Refreshments will be served.