Franklin 250 presents a concert version preview of The Crossing: A Revolutionary New Musical, featuring professional actors from Broadway and television. The production was created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the pivotal Revolutionary War battle that reshaped the course of American history. The concert will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM at Franklin Middle School – Sampson G. Smith Campus, 1649 Amwell Road, Somerset.
Directed by longtime Somerset resident Terri Seggio and musically directed by composer John Allen Watts, with book and lyrics by Jason Huza, this landmark event offers an early look at a groundbreaking production centered on one of the most decisive moments in American history: General George Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River, which led to crucial victories at Trenton and Princeton.
Developed through meticulous historical research and collaboration with leading scholars, The Crossing weaves together military strategy, political philosophy, and deeply human storytelling. The result is a powerful narrative that honors the courage, sacrifice, and determination that shaped the birth of our nation.
“This show is an inspiring celebration of history, artistry, and national resilience that I am proud to bring to local audiences,” said director Terri Seggio.
Part of a series of Franklin 250 events, the preview of The Crossing is one night only, February 28, at 7 pm, at Sampson G Smith School Auditorium. Tickets are just $10 and are available online in advance and at the door. All proceeds will benefit Franklin 250, which supports educational and cultural programming throughout this historic anniversary year.
A Living Portrait of America’s Founding
“The Crossing was born from the belief that history isn’t something we leave behind—it’s something we continually step into with courage, clarity, and heart,” said composer John Allen Watts.
The Crossing breaks new ground by bringing historically overlooked voices to the forefront. Featured characters include Private Jacob Francis, a free Black soldier who served in Washington’s army, and Billy Lee, Washington’s enslaved and trusted valet. By highlighting these stories, the production presents a fuller, more inclusive portrait of the American Revolution—one that reflects the diversity and complexity of the nation’s founding.
This approach strengthens the relevance of New Jersey’s revolutionary sites for contemporary audiences and reinforces the city’s vital role in telling America’s complete story.
World Premiere in 2026
The full stage production of The Crossing is scheduled for December 2026 in Trenton, aligning with the 250th anniversary of Washington’s crossing of the Delaware. The production is being co-produced by the Passage Theatre Company and TenCrucialDays.org. This preview concert offers supporters and history lovers an exclusive opportunity to be part of the journey from its earliest stages.
Stellar Cast
The concert features a distinguished cast led by Martin Hargrove and Jim Schubin. Following the performance, Watts and Huza will share behind-the-scenes insights and engage directly with the audience in a Q&A session—offering a rare opportunity to connect with the creative minds behind the work.
Mr. Hargrove has performed opera, musical theatre, recitals, and concerts throughout the US, Europe, Canada and South America. Martin is a celebrated operatic performer whose graced many stages with credits that include roles such as Colline (La Bohème), Figaro (Le Nozze di Figaro), Ramfis (Aida), Balthazar (Amahl and the Night Visitor), and Jake (Porgy and Bess). He has performed with major companies including Boheme Opera NJ, Houston Grand Opera, and The Metropolitan Opera. Educated at Westminster Choir College, and Trenton State College, Martin is also an active church soloist, lecturer, and music workshop leader.
Mr. Schubin is a NY based actor and singer, and 1st prize winner of the 2016 Lotte Lenya Singing Competition. Jim has starred in shows off-Broadway, National Tours, and at theatres across the country. He created the Role of Phillip Gardner on the Emmy Award-Winning Series Broadwalk Empire on HBO and has had multiple guest roles in Law & Order, L&O: SVU, Fosse Verdon and more. Jim also works as a private voice and acting instructor in Hamilton NJ. www.schubinstudios.com
Meet the Creatives
John Allen Watts (Composer) brings decades of experience in composing, performing, and producing music across popular and theatrical genres. A graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts’ Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program, he has developed The Crossing through multiple professional readings. His dynamic, accessible score is designed for both large-scale theatrical and filmed productions.
Jason Huza (Book and Lyrics) is a multidisciplinary writer whose work spans musical theatre, plays, novels, and screenwriting. His musical It Happened in Key West premiered on London’s West End in 2018, and his play Dante’s Omission was a Eugene O’Neill Playwriting Conference semifinalist. His experience supports The Crossing’s planned expansion into a serialized television format in future years.
Terry Seggio (Director) has been teaching literacy, directing, and choreographing for over 35 years, the last 23 years in Franklin Township, and has directed or choreographed over 50 shows. She currently serves as the educational consultant for The Crossing and is the Chairperson of the Franklin Township Cultural Arts Council. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Project Broadway in NYC bringing her expertise in the Arts to both organizations. Mrs. Seggio continues to coach students privately for theatre auditions and was overjoyed to watch one of her former students win a Tony Award in 2025. She firmly believes all children should experience a standing ovation once in their lifetimes.
An Evening of Patriotism, Artistry, and Hope
The Crossing is more than a musical—it is a tribute to the ideals that forged a nation and the people who carried them forward against overwhelming odds.
Audiences are invited to join this extraordinary evening of music, history, and community, and to help launch a production that honors America’s past while inspiring its future.
“Join us for an unforgettable night celebrating courage, creativity, and the enduring American spirit,” said Director Seggio.
