“JQA” by Aaron Posner
This country isn’t gonna get more perfect on its own.
“In Aaron Posner’s play, there is more than one John Quincy Adams, but only one way to ensure that American democracy endures.” —The New York Times
“Even if one isn’t a history buff, JQA is a thoughtful and thought-provoking piece of theatre, exploring the responsibility we owe to both our loved ones and our country.” —Broadway World
About the Play
John Quincy Adams was a brilliant but quick-tempered diplomat, one-term President, and Congressman. Award-winning playwright Aaron Posner (“Stupid F**king Bird,” “Cyrano”) imagines conversations between Adams and extraordinary Americans like George Washington, Frederick Douglass, and Abigail Adams. From BETC’s new traveling outdoor stage, four Colorado actors chart JQA’s 70-year journey from mischievous child to reluctant diplomat to abolition advocate. Provocative, haunting, and hilarious, this play challenges the ways we think about our country, our government, and ourselves. The BETC Theatre Truck hits the road for the first time this summer, bringing great theatre to Colorado communities. Free and outdoors, grab your chair or blanket, pack a picnic basket, and join us for an evening to remember.Content Warnings
This production contains conversations about and depictions of American slavery. This production includes some moderately explicit language.Pricing
Unless noted below, BETC Theatre Truck’s “JQA” is presented free of charge with the generous support of community organizations, sponsors, and donors. If you can, we invite you to give what you will to keep us moving this summer. Whether it’s $5 or $100, every dollar brings great theatre to Colorado communities. Buy us a cup of coffee at betc.org/move.Schedule
Sunday, June 27, 7 p.m.
Boulder Jewish Community CenterSaturday, July 3, 2 and 7 p.m.
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center’s City as a Venue at Acacia Park, 115 E Platte Ave, Colorado SpringsFriday, July 9, 7 p.m.
Anthem Ranch, BroomfieldSaturday, July 10, 7 p.m.
Northglenn Arts at E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, 11701 Community Center Dr, NorthglennFriday, July 16, 7 p.m.
Buntport Theatre parking lot, 717 Lipan Street, Denver No registration required, just show up! More informationSaturday, July 17, 7 p.m.
ArtWalk at the Firehouse Art Center, 667 4th Ave, Longmont No registration required, just show up! More informationFriday, July 23, 7 p.m.
Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut Street, Boulder Free with registration More information and registrationFriday, July 30, 7 p.m.
Frasier Retirement Community, Boulder Please Note: This is a private presentation and is not open to public attendance.Saturday, July 31, 4 p.m.
Depot Museum, 2201 W 10th Ave, Broomfield No registration required, just show up! More informationSunday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m.
Echo Brewing and Pizzeria, 600 Briggs St., Erie No registration required, just show up! Please note: Outside food and drink are not allowed at this event. Enjoy the great food and drink from Echo Brewing and Pizzeria! View menu Sign Up For UpdatesFrequently Asked Questions
How long is the show? Is there an intermission?
The show runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.What about the weather?
The show will continue through light rain but will be halted for more severe weather. Based on the most up-to-date forecast, we will determine if a pause in the show is temporary or if the show will be canceled. Advance cancellations will be announced at betc.org. Colorado weather can change quickly! Be prepared for heat, rain, and wind. We suggest bringing a hat and water for hot days and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Please bring rain ponchos, but leave the umbrellas at home, so they don’t obstruct the view of fellow patrons, should the show continue through light rain.Do I have to bring my own chair?
BETC is not providing seating, so bring a chair or a blanket and settle in for a fabulous evening of theatre.Are food and alcohol allowed?
Outside alcohol is not permitted at any of our performances. Outside food is welcome, but please avoid noisy wrappers and indulge conscientiously. Please also be sure to dispose of any trash or recycling when you leave. Outside food is not allowed at our performance in Erie at Echo Brewing and Pizzeria.Can I smoke?
We’d prefer you do not, but if you do, please respect those around you and abide by the rules of the facility.Are there wheelchair-accessible restrooms?
Access to restrooms varies by location; please contact us for information at info@betc.org or 303-351-BETC.Will there be ASL interpretation or captions?
We hope to provide ASL interpretation or captions for the BETC Theatre Truck in future years.Is there wheelchair-accessible parking nearby?
Wheelchair accessible parking varies by location; please contact us for information at info@betc.org or 303-351-BETC.Can I bring my dog?
We would prefer you wouldn’t, but if you do, please be respectful of your fellow patrons and abide by the facility’s rules.Is this show suitable for children? Can I bring my baby?
Families are welcome to attend! “JQA” is equivalent to a PG movie. The show’s length and content make it best suited for children twelve and older, but parents with infants and very young children are welcome to attend and step out when needed so that the artists can continue the show without interruption.Do I have to wear a mask or bring proof of vaccination?
BETC is not requiring proof of vaccination to attend. Please follow local guidelines, covid19.colorado.gov.Digital Playbill for “JQA” by Aaron Posner
The People of “JQA”
Production Team

Assistant Stage Manager
Ashley Wagner
Costume Designer
Erika DaunCast
University of Denver Technical Internship Team


