Jonathan Chapman was born in 1794 in Leominster, Massachusetts. In the next 60 years or so, he became a legend due to his kind, generous ways, his leadership in conservation, and the symbolic importance he attributed to apples. He was also a kind of missionary who spread the news right fresh from heaven for all to hear. That’s important, because in those days there were plenty of fire and brimstone preachers who tried to scare followers into heaven by showing them the horrors of hell. Jonathan went in another direction, preaching about the Son who came to tell us of God’s love.
Perfect story for a Broadway musical, we thought. So we began the process began 55 years ago, in my living room, when Todd Van Every had an idea and passed it to me (Bill Davidson) and Irwin Webb. We both jumped in, and it’s been a long, exciting, frustrating journey, with four producers, five productions, and rave reviews. We’re actually working on a documentary that will chronicle our crazy trip. When it’s finished, we’ll post it here. Meanwhile, enjoy the songs, read the script, and let us know what you think.