North Central Phoenix playwright, actor and director David Lewis is starring as Ben Franklin in the Valley premiere of a new play, “Mr. Franklin of Philadelphia.” Lewis, an Arizona native, has been involved in the theater, off and on, as an actor, director and writer, for more than 30 years.

    Although Benjamin Franklin found fame and fortune as a writer, entrepreneur, politician, scientist, and diplomat, he remained at heart a simple tradesman. He favored practical solutions over complicated theories and he firmly believed in the necessity of compromise. Throughout his life Franklin embodied the core “American” values: hard work and self-reliance, common sense and thrift, tolerance and compassion.

    Lewis will bring Ben Franklin to life on stage through Nov. 15. Performances take place at the Playhouse in the Park, inside The Viad Tower at 1850 N. Central Ave. Tickets range from $15 to $28. Call 602-254-2151 or visit http://sashaproductions.org for more information.