What if the myths we tell about historical figures held a kernel of truth—not in the literal sense, but as a gateway to exploring deeper cultural and societal themes? That’s the question that lingers in my mind as I delve into Pig Iron Theatre Company’s upcoming production, Franklin’s Key. On the surface, it’s a comedic, sci-fi reimagining of Ben Franklin’s legacy, but personally, I think it’s so much more than that. It’s a reflection on how we mythologize our heroes, blending fact with fantasy to create narratives that resonate across generations.
The Myth of Ben Franklin: More Than Meets the Eye
Ben Franklin, the polymath who flew a kite in a storm and somehow became America’s favorite inventor, is a figure ripe for reimagining. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Franklin’s Key doesn’t just play with his historical persona but leans into the mythos—the idea that he could control the weather, or that there’s a secret society in Philadelphia harnessing his discoveries. From my perspective, this isn’t just a fun sci-fi twist; it’s a commentary on how we elevate historical figures into almost superhuman roles. Franklin wasn’t just a scientist; he was a symbol of American ingenuity, curiosity, and democratization of knowledge.
One thing that immediately stands out is the play’s use of Philadelphia landmarks as portals to this alternate reality. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, City Hall, and even the Wanamaker Organ become more than just backdrops—they’re characters in their own right. What this really suggests is that cities like Philadelphia aren’t just physical spaces; they’re repositories of collective memory and imagination. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a love letter not just to Franklin but to the city itself, a place where history and myth intertwine seamlessly.
Secret Societies and the Allure of the Hidden
The idea of a secret society of scientists laboring underground is a trope that’s been explored in shows like The X-Files and Stranger Things. But what many people don’t realize is how deeply this trope taps into our collective psyche. We’re fascinated by the unseen, the hidden, the idea that there’s more to the world than meets the eye. Franklin’s Key plays with this fascination, but it also adds a layer of warmth and accessibility, making it a play that both adults and kids can enjoy.
Co-artistic director Dan Rothenberg describes it as a “gateway drug” to experimental theater, and I think that’s spot on. Experimental theater can often feel exclusionary, but by grounding the play in familiar tropes and a beloved historical figure, Pig Iron is inviting a broader audience to engage with their work. This raises a deeper question: Can art that’s accessible also be intellectually stimulating? Personally, I believe Franklin’s Key proves that it can.
The Role of Art in Honoring the Past
What’s particularly intriguing is how the play honors Franklin’s legacy not by recreating history but by reimagining it. Franklin wasn’t just a scientist; he was a champion of civil society, democracy, and the arts. He founded libraries, fire companies, and believed in the power of community. In a time when tech bros dominate headlines, Franklin’s holistic approach to progress feels refreshingly relevant.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the playwrights drew inspiration from their own children. The lead characters are adolescent prodigies, siblings who uncover the secret society and must save it from dark forces. This isn’t just a plot device; it’s a reflection on the next generation’s role in carrying forward the values of the past. It’s also a reminder that storytelling, at its core, is about passing down ideas and ideals.
The Intersection of Science and Art
One of the most compelling aspects of Franklin’s Key is its celebration of the intersection between science and art. Franklin himself was a master of both, and the play mirrors this duality. The special effects, designed by Obie Award-winner Skylar Fox, promise to be nothing short of spectacular. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how these effects aren’t just for show—they’re integral to the narrative, blending the fantastical with the tangible.
Rosie Langabeer’s musical score adds another layer, creating a soundscape that bridges the historical and the futuristic. From my perspective, this is where the play truly shines: it’s not just about telling a story; it’s about creating an experience that engages all the senses.
Why This Matters Now
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and division, Franklin’s Key feels like a timely reminder of the values Franklin championed: curiosity, community, and the democratization of knowledge. It’s also a reminder of the power of storytelling to reimagine our past and inspire our future.
If you take a step back and think about it, the play is a metaphor for how we navigate our own realities. We’re all, in some way, uncovering secrets, battling dark forces, and trying to make sense of a complex world. What this really suggests is that the myths we tell about figures like Franklin aren’t just about them—they’re about us, our hopes, our fears, and our aspirations.
Final Thoughts
Franklin’s Key is more than a play; it’s a conversation starter. It invites us to rethink how we engage with history, art, and each other. Personally, I think it’s a masterpiece of blending the familiar with the fantastical, the historical with the imaginative. It’s a reminder that even in an age of cynicism, there’s still room for wonder—and that’s something we could all use a little more of.
So, if you’re in Philadelphia this June, do yourself a favor and catch this production. It’s not just theater; it’s an experience that will leave you thinking, questioning, and maybe even believing in the magic of myths—both old and new.
