Chadwick Stokes to Premiere New Rock Opera '1972' at American Repertory Theater

The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University has officially pulled back the curtain on its 2026-27 season, headlined by the highly anticipated world premiere of 1972, a new rock opera from Boston’s own Chadwick Stokes.

Stokes, the celebrated frontman of DISPATCH and State Radio, has spent years developing the project. Known for his activism as much as his music, Stokes has crafted a story that intertwines the gritty freedom of the American rails with the high-stakes struggle for reproductive rights.

A Story of Grit and Grace

Set in its namesake year, the production follows 19-year-old Hannah. Fleeing an abusive relationship, Hannah finds herself "riding the rails" across America alongside a band of outcasts. Her journey eventually leads her to the Janes, an underground network of women inspired by real-life history who risked everything to provide safe healthcare to those with no other options.

“I’ve thought for years about writing a rock opera and kept coming back to the pull of freight train-hopping—the grit, the motion, the way it lets you see the country up close,” Stokes said. “Telling that alongside the story of a young woman in 1972 fighting for control over her own body felt like a way into something that still resonates.”

Powerhouse Creative Team

The production marks a major collaboration between Stokes and Jessie Nelson, who serves as co-writer and director. Nelson is a formidable force in both film and theater, having written the book for the hit musical Waitress and directed the Academy Award-nominated film I Am Sam.

"When I first heard Chad's score for 1972, it felt wholly original," Nelson noted. "It was not only the seeds of a beautiful, powerful musical, it was also a call to care and respond."

The premiere will feature an ensemble of actor-musicians, with Stokes himself confirmed to take the stage.

How to Attend

1972 will run from October 27 through November 22, 2026, at Farkas Hall at Harvard University.

• Season Subscriptions: Available starting in late April.
• Single Tickets: Expected to go on sale this summer.
• Where to Buy: Visit AmericanRepertoryTheater.org for more information.

A Bold Season Ahead

The A.R.T. also announced two other titles for the upcoming season: a new production of RHINOCEROS directed by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus, and the award-winning MEXODUS.

As a Tony Award-winning hub that launched global hits like Jagged Little Pill and Life of Pi, the A.R.T. continues its tradition of developing boundary-pushing work just a short trip from the South Shore. For local fans of DISPATCH and supporters of Stokes’ non-profit, Calling All Crows, this premiere represents a landmark moment in the artist’s storied career.