Hero: The Boy From Troy

A New Musical About Young John Lewis


Hero The Boy From Troy: A New Musical About Young John Lewis
  • Monday, January 26, 2026, 9:30am
  • Monday, January 26, 2026, 11:30am
  • Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
  • Recommended for grades 3-6
  • Performance Run Time: Approximately 60 minutes
  • Study Guide

Original Credits

Book by Nambi E. Kelley

Music and Lyrics by Joe Plummer

Direction by Daniel Carlton

Produced by First Woman

Curriculum Connections

American History, Civil Rights, Personal Politics, Music: Traditional Negro Spiritual Songs and Freedom Songs

Performance Description

Jayden is stuck in detention with a book about Congressman John Lewis, but he thinks that history has nothing to teach him. Together we go on a musical journey through the decades that shows how the heroes in the Civil Rights movement inspired young John Lewis.

As a boy, John dreams of being a preacher who can help others. While he doesn't have a congregation yet, he does have a loyal group of singing chickens that listen to him as he finds his voice. On a harrowing road trip through the South, John's eyes and mind are opened to the injustices of segregation and racism, inspiring him to take action. As John meets Rosa Parks and Dr. King and ultimately becomes a leader and American hero himself, Jayden learns how he too can take a stand.

 The United States of America observes its 250th anniversary in 2026. As part of a nationwide programming initiative, this performance is part of the Gallo Center's celebration. 

 California State Standards

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.3.3 Describe characters in a story (e.g., their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events.

 CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.5.3 Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text based on specific information in the text.