Meet George Washington at Cumberland County Library

   On Saturday, June 28, the Cumberland County Library in Bridgeton, NJ will host a free public program, “George Washington: Revolution to Republic”. Scholar and actor John Lopes of the American Historical Theatre will portray George Washington in an hour-long performance including time for questions and answers from the audience. This free presentation begins at 2pm in the library’s Meeting Room, in the lower level of the library.

   Without George Washington, America might have had a Napoleon to lead troops and then government.  But the General, and future First President, remained faithful to the principles for which he and his country had fought. Leading by example, Washington resigned his commission as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army and then declined a possible third term as President. His well-earned retirement to his beloved Mount Vernon lasted less than 3 years, but he and Martha enjoyed living beneath “fig and vine” together until his death in 1799.

   Raised on a dairy farm, John Lopes can appreciate the connection George Washington felt for his land. And trained to ride, dance and elegantly cross swords, Mr. Lopes skillfully conveys Washington’s talents as a soldier, a leader, and a Virginia gentleman. Standing well above 6’, Mr. Lopes portrays George Washington as an impressive, thoughtful man of action. Mr. Lopes has been acting in California and then in Philadelphia since 1990. With a BA in English from California State and an MFA in Acting from Temple University, he is a well-trained theater artist, and his acting experience includes performances with Hunger Theater, Arcadia Shakespeare Festival, Lantern Theater, Commonwealth Classic Theater and in productions by the Walnut Street Theater.

   Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission/Department of State and the Cumberland County Board of Chosen Freeholders through the Cumberland County Cultural and Heritage Commission.

   Cumberland County Library is located at 800 East Commerce Street in Bridgeton, NJ 08302. For more information, please call (856) 453-2210, ext. 103.