Step inside Boston’s historic Old South Meeting House and experience the Ruckus! that ignited the American Revolution. This immersive show drops you right into the heart of the debate and defiance that once filled this iconic space, where ordinary people set extraordinary change in motion.
From the floorboards to the balconies, you will be surrounded by dynamic sound, lighting, and projected animations of fiery revolutionaries, determined citizens, and some unlikely troublemakers whose courage shook these walls.
For visitors, locals, and adventurers of all ages, Ruckus! is a powerful way to begin exploring Boston’s pivotal role in shaping our nation—a fast-paced and unforgettable reminder that a little Ruckus! can change everything.
Find out what all the Ruckus! is about!
Watch this sneak peek of Ruckus!, then get your tickets to experience Boston’s revolutionary story.
THE RUCKUS! REVIEWS ARE IN ...
"We visited the Old State House and are so glad we did! The Ruckus! movie was fantastic!! Highly recommend for kids and adults alike!!! So glad we took the time to do this while visiting Boston."
"Amazing media show with cutting edge effects that make it entertaining. The content is historically accurate and connects with our current cultural events."
"The meeting house walls literally turn into a theater for children and adults alike to experience an animated retelling of history."
THE RUCKUS! CAST OF CHARACTERS
Jeremy
Descendant from a long line of rodents caring for Old South Meeting House. Likes hanging out with his friends, playing air guitar, flip bottle, and programming in Scratch.
Agatha
Grand dame of Old South Meeting House and rodent caretaker of the building throughout the Revolutionary era. Loyal to the crown and does not care for rabble rousing.
Phillis Wheatley
(1753 – 1784)
Learned to read and write while enslaved, becoming one the most gifted poets in North America. Faithful that a new America might some day grant liberty to all people.
Thomas Hutchinson
(1711 – 1780)
One of Colonial Boston's most powerful yet compromised political figures. Often sees the errors of Parliament’s ways, but nonetheless enforces their laws.
John Hancock
(1737 – 1793)
A charming and prominent Bostonian. His business interests are often at odds with Parliamentary policy, but he didn’t become the richest guy in town without taking a few risks.
Samuel Adams
(1722 – 1803)
Inventor of the caucus. May not be a very good beer maltster, or tax collector, or any job really, but this guy loves a meeting.
John Adams
(1735 – 1826)
Lawyer and civic leader who always does what he thinks is right. If it gets him into trouble, so be it! And if it raises his profile, all the better!
Scipio Gunney
(unknown – unknown)
Parishioner of Old South Meeting House and formerly enslaved man who spent much of his time attempting to gain freedom for his family.
Abigail Adams
(1744 – 1818)
Her husband’s closest political advisor. Despite being unable to wield political power herself, she is a strong advocate for the rights of all people.
DETAILS
Open Daily
Old South Meeting House
310 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02108
Tickets to Ruckus! also include general admission to the Old South Meeting House and Old State House historic sites and museums.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Ruckus! is made possible through the generous support of a local private foundation, with major support from The Lynch Foundation, The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation, Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, Massachusetts 250, Meet Boston, and many generous individual supporters.
