Theatre in the Circle, the resident theatre company at Judson Manor in Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood, is back — and they’re making their return with something truly historic.

On June 4, 5, 6, and 7, 2026, Theatre in the Circle will present the World Premiere of Frankly Ben Franklin, A Musical Memoir, timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. The production features book, music, and lyrics by Cleveland writer Darryl Bojanowski, and is part of the original catalogue from TND Musicals.

The story centers on Benjamin Franklin late in life as he commits his memoirs to paper. As he writes, the memories come alive — people who shaped him, challenged him, and haunted him step forward from the past, laying bare the personal cost behind the founding of a nation. It’s an intimate portrait of one of America’s most celebrated figures, told through an original score and a Cleveland-born creative voice.

Performances take place at Judson Manor, 1890 E. 107th St., Cleveland, OH 44106 — the same historic ballroom where Theatre in the Circle earned its reputation for professional, community-centered live theatre from 2016 to 2020 before the pandemic forced a pause. Founded by Bill and the late Mark Corcoran, the company’s return to the stage is itself a story worth celebrating.

For full show details, rehearsal photos, and a preview video, visit the Broadway World Cleveland listing.