The Marlowe Theatre has announced the premiere of its new production of A Tale of Two Cities, running from 14 to 19 September 2026, with a press night on 17 September. Adapted for the stage by Terence Rattigan and John Gielgud, the production is directed by Michael Fentiman.
Set against the turbulence of 1770s Paris, the story follows Sydney Carton, Charles Darnay and Lucie Manette as the French Revolution erupts around them. The show explores themes of sacrifice, redemption and the cost of love. The creative team includes set designer Max Jones, costume designer Kinnetia Isidore, lighting designer Ben Jacobs, sound designer Richard Hammarton, composer Barnaby Race, casting director Helena Palmer and fight director Jonathan Holby. Leo Butler serves as dramaturg.
Deborah Shaw, Chief Executive at the Marlowe Theatre, said: ‘Our first Marlowe Theatre production last year, The Party Girls, marked the beginning of regular home-produced work that will be made in Kent, here at the Marlowe and touring out. Our second Main Stage production, A Tale of Two Cities, is an epic story, an adaptation of one of the best-selling books of all time, which is being seen at this scale for the first time since it was adapted by Terence Rattigan and John Gielgud in the 1930s. Directed by Michael Fentiman, this production represents a major step in our commitment to large-scale, national touring theatre.’
Michael Fentiman said: ‘I’m incredibly excited to be working with the Marlowe Theatre at such a significant moment in its history, as it continues its producing journey. It feels especially apt to be making A Tale of Two Cities — a play so deeply entangled with the hope of new beginnings.’
Also announced is The Reluctant Dragon, a new family musical for Christmas 2026, based on the beloved story by Kenneth Grahame. With book and lyrics by Samson Hawkins and direction by Lucy Wray, the production will run from 5 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 in the Marlowe’s studio space. Designs are by Charlotte Espiner.
The story follows a fairytale‑obsessed child who befriends a gentle, poetry‑loving dragon, prompting the village to question what makes a hero and what makes a monster.
Millie Brierley, Senior Producer at the Marlowe Theatre, said: ‘Building on the recent success of My Pet Star – the Marlowe’s first new musical – we’re delighted to be introducing a new generation of young audiences to the wit and warmth of Kenneth Grahame’s The Reluctant Dragon this Christmas.’
Both productions go on general sale on 30 March.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
