Paris is on the brink, a guillotine stands ready, and one man’s choice could change everything. A fresh adaptation of “A Tale of Two Cities,” made for contemporary theatergoers, makes its regional debut at Oklahoma City University Oct. 29 through Nov. 1. Created for high school and adult audiences, this production explores how morality and the choices we make can change the course of history.
Based on the novel by Charles Dickens, the story is set in Paris and London in 1787 as the world stands on the brink of revolution. It follows two look-alikes whose fates become entangled in questions of love, identity, destiny and redemption.
“This exciting adaptation immerses the audience in the world of Dickens’ tale,” said director Amy Osatinski. “The staging blurs the line between actors and audience, letting everyone who attends become part of the action.”
An ensemble cast of 14 actors delivers more than 50 distinct characters, switching in an instant between heroes and villains, spies and lovers, madmen and revolutionaries. With a stage guillotine and interactive audience elements, the fast-paced, multi-role storytelling brings the tension of revolutionary Europe to life.
This imaginative production is presented in a collaboration between TheatreOCU and the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre. Commissioned and originally premiered at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, the play has been staged at only two other theaters nationwide (Atlanta and Chicago), making this a rare opportunity for Oklahoma audiences.
Showtimes are 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29; 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31; and 2 p.m. Nov. 1. Tickets ($10-$15) are available on the OCT website.
Audience members at the Halloween night performance (Oct. 31) are welcome to arrive in costume.
This production deals with violence, death and the human cost of revolution. It is intense and atmospheric rather than scary, and is recommended for ages 16 and older.
