Age Group:
Adults- Registration is required for this event.
- Registration will close on June 23, 2026 @ 4:00pm.
Program Description
Event Details
Philadelphia, 1776: As tensions rise with King George III, Thomas Paine publishes a stirring treatise that electrifies the colonies. “Common Sense” spreads like wildfire, rallying public support for independence, inspiring George Washington’s weary army and foreshadowing the Declaration of Independence. Howard Fast’s “Citizen Tom Paine” vividly portrays the man and the moment that shaped a nation. Join us for a lively staged reading of excerpts from Howard Fast’s bestselling novel, performed by John Genette, Peter Strupp, and Phyllis Strupp, followed by a brief Q&A exploring the relevance of “Common Sense” today. Running time for performance and Q&A is 50 minutes.
John Genette has extensive experience adapting novels for the stage and has appeared in several original shows, primarily at Arizona State’s Empty Space Theater. Peter and Phyllis Strupp have performed on local stages for many years including numerous Desert Foothills Theater productions. They have also produced a film, Better from Within, based on Phyllis’s latest book, which has been selected for several film festivals.
Free | Register at dfla.org | Questions, please call 480-488-2286.
Disclaimer(s)
Accessibility
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.