The Canyon Hills High School Theater Program recently took its annual field trip to the La Jolla Playhouse, and this year’s outing did not disappoint. Courtesy of the company, students were given the opportunity to see a brand-new musical titled 3 Summers of Lincoln.
Many of us went in without any knowledge of the show, which made the experience all the more exciting and unpredictable. What unfolded on stage was nothing short of incredible—a powerful, emotional, and genre-bending musical that left a lasting impression on everyone in the audience.
The day itself was memorable from start to finish. After arriving at the La Jolla Playhouse, we were ushered into the theater and took our seats, buzzing with curiosity. The musical began almost immediately, and from the very first note, it was clear we were witnessing something special.
“It was incredible. I loved the set, especially how the background letters spelled out my name” states junior Mia Pates. Unfortunately, we have no pictures of the set as it was prohibited, so you’ll just have to go see the show yourself!
3 Summers of Lincoln explores three pivotal years in President Abraham Lincoln’s life, focusing not just on his role in the Civil War, but also on his marriage struggles with Mary Todd Lincoln and his evolving friendship and collaboration with Frederick Douglass. These humanizing elements brought new depth to a historical figure most of us have only encountered through textbooks.
One of the most striking features of the show was its music. With clear influences from gospel and R&B, the score brought a fresh and emotional energy to the historical material. Each song was delivered with passion, and the actors gave it their all—belting, harmonizing, and even dancing with a level of intensity that made it impossible to look away. The music wasn’t just entertaining; it helped tell the story in ways words alone couldn’t. There was a rawness and sincerity in the performances that moved many in the audience to tears.
While it’s hard not to compare any modern historical musical to Hamilton, 3 Summers of Lincoln managed to stand confidently on its own. Yes, it had some similarities in structure and theme, like blending contemporary music with historical content, but it also introduced a unique voice and narrative approach that set it apart. The show didn’t try to copy anything; instead, it built on the foundation of what’s been done before and pushed it further, breaking new ground for what a musical of this nature can be.
After the final curtain call, students were treated to a special Q&A session with members of the cast and creative team. This behind-the-scenes glimpse helped us appreciate the immense effort, research, and creativity that went into crafting the production. Hearing actors speak about their character development and musical choices gave the experience even more meaning. It also inspired many of us who hope to pursue theater to keep creating and telling stories that matter.
The day concluded with lunch and laughter among friends, but it was the show itself that remained the highlight. The field trip wasn’t just a break from the classroom—it was an unforgettable artistic experience that expanded our understanding of history, storytelling, and the power of live performance.
Without a doubt, 3 Summers of Lincoln is a triumph, and this trip to the La Jolla Playhouse is one that CHHS students will not soon forget.
