North Carolina - Joseph Hewes

Cast member, Marus Ray Connell

Joseph Hewes

Joseph Hewes - Marigold brocade waistcoat, 5 yds lime

COMMENTS What a production! What a cast! What a crew! What an experience!!
1st - It is now obvious to me that yes, desperation does cause normally sane folks
to make desperate decisions. I'm speaking of TJ's decision to cast me in this wonderful show. I tanked the audition completely! I knew it was way to early for me to attempt singing anything, let alone "Momma Look Sharp" yet I attempted it anyway. During the entire audition process I was SO nervous (for the first time in my life) ... my heart was pounding, I really wasn't prepared as I hadn't been able to sing (or do much of anything else either) for the last 23 months, and I was truly out of my element, not to mention my mind. Yet evidently TJ's desperation to find enough men to fill all of the rolls over-rode the fact that I stunk as both an
actor and a vocalist. I guess he just figured that I did possess one quality that might work for my role as Joseph Hewes ... my natural North Carolina accent. I am so very thankful that both he and Joe looked past my terrible audition and gave me a chance to experience this!
2nd - I must sincerely thank the first new friend I made since moving to NH, Peter Ayer. Peter, you are both a saint and a gentlemen, and one of the most giving individuals I've met in my 48 years. For those that don't know, I don't drive (for medical reasons) and had no transportation to and
from Pittsfield from my home in Laconia. TJ hooked me up with Peter to get me to the auditions, then Peter continued to transport me to and from every rehearsal and performance. Peter went early and stayed late waiting for me to complete rehearsal portions that he wasn't even a part of. That's truly dedication and friendship, and for that I will be forever grateful!
3rd - I'd like to thank all of the cast and crew for their very warm welcome to NH, the Pittsfield Players, and this specific production. I was totally new to all, hadn't done theatre in 30 years, didn't know what to expect, or how to do anything that was required to complete the show. Yet everyone accepted me with open arms, nurturing support and suggestions, and true love. Y'all each, unknowingly, made my recent move to NH finally feel like home!
4th - There's just too many individuals (basically everyone) to mention regarding fun times during the process of putting this show together. As Allen Hillman pointed out to me, I am evidently fully capable of writing a "Book" by way of explaining anything that touches my heart. So, I won't go into
that here (I believe that TJ said we only have one page inwhich to express our thoughts). However, I will state that I've never come across a more dedicated, talented, focused, and yet fun loving group of men and women in any aspect of my life. All had something magical to bring to the table (excluding me, of course) to enable this production to become a living legend of what "1776" should always be
about. Anyone that saw this show will never forget it or the individuals that made it come to life. I know that I won't ever forget!
Lastly, just a short note to Mr. Peacock (Robb Ross) ... I'd like to thank you for reminding me that my once hard round butt has now gone the way of the dinosaurs. You really didn't need to remind me, as my wife often comments on my new "old man's flat yet saggy butt." But thank you just the same. Tis but one other thing I know that I need to work on in my life (ha)! I will miss y'all, and hope that we each stay in touch in the future. And yes TJ, I do plan on doing more
theatre in the future (sorry), but I promise I'll be better prepared the next time. Good luck, good health, be safe, and God Bless you and yours!

Joseph Hewes

Sings in "For God's Sake John, Sit Down" - "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men"

AGE 46 - Merchant

Marcus appeared in Mecklenburg High School productions of “Brigadoon”, “Jesus Christ Superstar”, and as the Courier in “1776”. He has been lead vocalist in several bands through the 1970’s in both Texas and North Carolina. He currently is retired and resides in Laconia with his wife Kelly Rae, and children Ashley Dawn, Justin Ray and Piper Ray.