First African Baptist Church is playing a vital role in bringing the story of Gabriel’s Rebellion to the stage through the new musical “Gabriel,” which runs Sept. 26 to Nov. 9 at Hanover Tavern.

The historic church, founded in 1780 and a cornerstone of Richmond’s Black community for generations, is hosting rehearsals for the production and providing pastoral guidance through Senior Pastor Rodney Waller, who serves as pastoral advisor for the musical. 

“Gabriel” tells the powerful story of Gabriel’s Rebellion, the major 1800 uprising planned by enslaved men in Richmond. Gabriel, born in 1776, was a literate blacksmith who, inspired by the call to freedom that drove the American Revolution, organized an estimated 1,000 co-conspirators to seize Richmond, take Gov. James Monroe hostage and demand an end to slavery. 

Although torrential rains on Aug. 30, 1800, prevented the plan from moving forward, Gabriel and his fellow freedom fighters left a lasting legacy. After Gabriel and 24 others were executed, their courage was eventually recognized when the Richmond City Council honored them in 2002, and Gov. Tim Kaine pardoned the men in 2007. 

The musical, presented by ATLAS Partnership and designated as an official program of the Virginia 250 Commission, features Broadway veteran Jerold Solomon in the title role. The production draws additional historical significance from its venue — five of Gabriel’s co-conspirators were enslaved at Hanover Tavern, where the show will be performed. 

“Gabriel’s story is about people — it’s an adventure, not a textbook,” said Ron Klipp, co-author, composer and musical director. “This is a theatrical experience that draws its strength from history, but its heartbeat from the energy of live performance.” 

“The mission of ATLAS Partnership is to recognize and respect, honor and protect the legacy assets of professional theater in Central Virginia,” said Emily Cole-Jones, producing team member. “Producing this new musical ‘Gabriel’ clearly fits within that mission, and we are proud to do so in association with Virginia’s diverse arts, historic and faith communities.” 

First African Baptist Church’s involvement in this production continues the congregation’s long tradition of supporting the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture in Richmond. 

For tickets and information, visit atlaspartnership.org.