Sam Kressen

Sam Kressen (October 5, 1918 – December 27, 1991) was an American actor whose Broadway career spanned from 1965 to 1981. A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kressen attended Central High School in that city, where he studied debate, oratory, and public speaking. He later earned a degree from the University of Pennsylvania and began his acting career with the Neighborhood Players, an organization that subsequently became the Society Hill Playhouse.

Before entering the theater, Kressen worked in Philadelphia selling jewels for a diamond company. He began performing as Benjamin Franklin in 1956, taking on the role at various events, and this association with the historical figure would define much of his professional life. His portrayal gained broader recognition when he joined the national company of the musical 1776, playing Franklin during the 1970 and 1971 tour. He returned to the role in 1976 for the Independence Mall Theatre's production of the show, and by 1988, while the play was running at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey, Kressen performed in 1776 for the 600th time.

On Broadway, Kressen appeared in a number of productions, including Golden Rainbow, in which he portrayed Mr. Korngold in 1968, as well as Funny Girl and Sugar Babies. His stage work extended to touring companies of Funny Girl, Luther, Mame, and The Andersonville Trial, and he performed in regional venues such as the Camden County Music Fair and the Storrowton Music Fair.

Beyond performing, Kressen contributed to the theater world in several other capacities. He conducted tours of Philadelphia, designed stationery and other materials for theatrical companies, and taught acting. In 1975, his likeness as Benjamin Franklin appeared on posters and souvenir cards produced by a Philadelphia publishing company.