Philadelphia’s favorite founding father is getting a rock-and-roll makeover this summer in ‘The Sound of America,’ a new musical premiering at FringeArts.

Created by Randall Lane and Todd Schwartz and directed by Barrymore Award-winner Kyle Metzger, the production imagines Benjamin Franklin as America’s first rock star. Backed by a live band, Franklin is reimagined as a struggling musician, inventor and printer who forms a band with his Leather Apron Club friends. 

When he accidentally unlocks the power of electric rock-and-roll following a lightning strike, everything changes and Franklin becomes an international sensation swept into a world of fame, political intrigue, and tension with the British elite.

Below, Kohl Pilgrim, who plays Franklin in ‘The Sound of America,’ talks more about what drew him to this unique story, the music behind the show, and what audiences can expect if they join him on a post-show walking tour through Old City.

You’re playing Benjamin Franklin as a full-on rock star. What drew you to this idea and version of him?

I was immediately drawn to this goofy and unreal version of Benjamin Franklin. I’m a big history guy, so portraying America’s coolest founding father is pretty amazing. It’s been intriguing getting to study his history and influence in Philly and throughout the world. It’s been even more interesting to build the character of the wise and noble founding father he’s known to be, while also making him the lead singer in the world’s biggest rock band. 

Co-creator Randall Lane calls Benjamin Franklin America’s original rock star. Do you agree, and why?

I think Benjamin Franklin really was the first rock star icon in America. He was known by everyone in the colonies as a guy you’d just want to hang out with. His inventions and ideas left a legacy everywhere he went. He was like an Elvis figure in the way that when he’d travel to different countries, everyone knew he was in town and would welcome him with open arms. 

With a live band on stage, can you talk about the musical styles or influences audiences expect to hear?

The music style is influenced by just about everything. There’s a lot of rock music out there, and we celebrate it all, ranging from hair metal and punk to country and blues. 

The musical opens as Philadelphia gears up for the Semiquincentennial. How does it feel to be part of a show that taps into that moment in such a bold, unexpected way?

It truly feels unreal. I never expected to be a part of such an exciting celebration of our history, while also portraying Benjamin Franklin in a rock-and-roll band. There’s something really special about being in this place at this time. 

Sir Roger Daltrey, lead singer of The Who, is also a part of the show. What’s his involvement look like?

Roger Daltrey, the production’s Royal Governor, collaborating with this show is mindblowing to me. Growing up listening to The Who, I’m so grateful to be partnering up with a true rock-and-roll legend. I can’t say too much, but he’ll be featured as a special cameo in the show. All the royalties will also benefit his charity, Teen Cancer America, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

From your perspective, what makes this production feel distinctly Philly, and why do you think it will resonate with tourists as well?

Ben Franklin’s influence on this city immediately connects the audience to the setting of Philadelphia and what the city represents. I think there are a lot of bits and references that audiences will connect to Philly and feel the pride of what the city is known for. 

You’re also leading free 45-minute post-show musical walking tours of Old City. Tell us about that experience.

Yes! I’m very excited for the opportunity to educate people about some cool stuff about the city. Curated by Ben Franklin historian Dr. Rosalind Remer, the tours will feature multiple sites of Ben’s influence, showcasing his story and the legacy left behind. I’ve also been studying up, and I’m filled with fun facts, so it’s bound to be a very educational event. 

Do you have a favorite historic spot or attraction in Philadelphia that you always recommend to people?

I always recommend friends to visit Franklin Court. I’m super biased, but getting to see the infrastructure and stand on the property where he lived and worked here in Philadelphia is something special. It’s also very peaceful and tucked away, which makes for a nice rest area to walk around and take in the environment. 

Is there a surprising or lesser-known fact about Benjamin Franklin that you learned on this journey?

After researching and studying everything I can about the guy, I think one of the coolest things I’ve learned is that, despite living in the patriarchal 18th century, 16-year-old Benjamin Franklin worked under a female alias, Silence Dogood, and wrote of women’s rights and fostered the education of women. 

The ‘Sound of America’ runs July 1 to Aug. 1 and is recommended for audiences 10 years or older. Tickets can be purchased at soundofamericamusical.com or by contacting FringeArts at 215-413-1318 or hello@fringearts.com.

MORE: Philadelphia at 250: A Center City walk through history

Keywords

Benjamin Franklin,

The Sound of America,

FringeArts,

Philadelphia theater,

America 250,

Old City Philadelphia,

Philly arts,

Live music,

Philadelphia events,

Kyle Metzger