You are the jury! Experience "Uprising on King Street," an interactive Boston Massacre drama by Theatre Espresso. Get your tickets today!
The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society is pleased to present “Uprising on King Street: The Boston Massacre of 1770,” performed by Theatre Espresso of Boston, MA. “This program is so much fun,” says Executive Director, Patricia Violette-Adams. “You, the audience, will represent the jury! As members of the jury, you can ask questions of the lawyers, John Adams or Robert Paine, or of Captain Preston. Then you will debate whether you feel Captain Preston should be found guilty of murder and cast your votes. Imagine observing this historical event as it happened in 1770!”
Following the performance, the actor-educators will come back on stage and answer any questions attendees may have. Tickets are required, as this program is sure to sell out!
BACKGROUND
The Seven Years War with France left Britain 133 million pounds in debt. To boost their economy, Parliament enacted a series of taxes on the American colonies that were despised by Boston’s inhabitants. British troops sent to Boston in 1770 further burdened an aggrieved populace. On March 5, what started as a group of boys taunting the guard, quickly escalated into a riot as Bostonians hurled sticks and snowballs at the soldiers. Led by Captain Preston, British soldiers from the 29th Regiment rushed to the scene. Chaos ensued, as soldiers shot and killed four men, and wounded six more. Preston and his soldiers were arrested for murder. Ignoring public sentiment, John Adams defended Preston and the soldiers at trial. Preston was acquitted, as were six of his men in a separate trial. Two soldiers were convicted of manslaughter. The Boston Massacre became a precipitating event to the American Revolution.
EVENT DETAILS
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Doors Open: 2:15 PM
Event Starts: 3:00 PM
Address: Historical Museum, 505 Main Street, Springvale, ME
The museum is handicapped accessible.
TICKETS
$20.00 at uprising-on-king-street.eventbrite.com
Registration is REQUIRED for this event, as space is limited to 60–70 participants. If you are unable to register on Eventbrite, please call 207-490-1028 or email info@sanfordhistory.org.
This event is generously supported and sponsored by: Harry A. Mapes Charitable Trust.
ABOUT THEATRE ESPRESSO
Theatre Espresso creates, produces, and performs interactive dramas that bring history to life for students and attendees, to foster a generation of critical thinkers and true citizens. Since 1992, Theatre Espresso has toured its educational dramas to schools, museums, libraries, and courthouses throughout New England.