LAKEPORT, Calif. – The Soper-Reese Community Theatre’s Classic Movie Series continues in July with the film version of the Broadway musical comedy of the same name, “1776.”

This 1972, award-winning film will be shown Tuesday, July 10, at the Soper-Reese Theatre, 275 S. Main St., Lakeport.

The doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the film starting at 6 p.m. Donations are graciously accepted for the classic movie series.

In the days leading up to July 4, 1776, Continental Congressmen John Adams and Benjamin Franklin coerce Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence as a delaying tactic as they try to persuade the American colonies to support a resolution on independence.

As George Washington sends depressing messages describing one military disaster after another, the businessmen, landowners and slave holders in Congress all stand in the way of the Declaration, and a single “nay” vote will forever end the question of independence.

Large portions of spoken and sung dialog are taken directly from the letters and memoirs of the actual participants.

This special Lake County showing is part of a new Classic Movie Series recently debuted at the theater that runs on the second Tuesday of every month through December of 2012.  

Check the theater’s Web site, www.soperreesetheatre.com , or call 707-263-0577 to see what other classics are coming up.

The Soper-Reese Community Theatre is a restored, historic performing arts venue established in 1949 and seating 300 patrons.  

Run by an all-volunteer organization, the theater operates under the guidance of the nonprofit Lake County Arts Council.  

The Soper-Reese brings dance, music, plays and poetry to all members of the Lake County community and to visiting tourists.