"The Fateful Hour: A Drama in Three Acts" at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House

Walk into the Bardavon and back in time to The Fateful Hour, a thrilling recreation of the role Poughkeepsie played in the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and the creation of the Bill of Rights.

The Fateful Hour, the Poughkeepsie Big Read 2026 Finale, was written by Judge Al Rosenblatt and will be directed by Roger H. Simon. The cast will portray Governor George Clinton, delegates Robert Livingston, Alexander Hamilton and John Jay. Historical cameos challenge the play's ending. 

A free evening show will open at 7 p.m. for the community (tickets required). Tickets will be available starting Thursday, Oct. 15, at all Poughkeepsie Public Library District branches and at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House box office.

Accessibility: The Bardavon is accessible on the ground level (no stairs). There is designated seating toward the stage and a single accessible bathroom on the same ground level. This event is general admission. For those who require accessible seating, it is recommended to arrive a little early.