A Tale of Two Cities announced in Marlowe Theatre season

The Marlowe Theatre has announced two new productions, with a stage adaptation of A Tale of Two Cities scheduled for September and a musical version of The Reluctant Dragon planned for Christmas.

A Tale of Two Cities, based on the novel by Charles Dickens, will run from 14 to 19 September 2026, with a press night on 17 September, before embarking on a UK tour.

Cast and further tour dates are to be announced. The stage adaptation was done by Terence Rattigan and John Gielgud, with direction now by Michael Fentiman.

Set in Paris during the 1770s, the story follows English barrister Sydney Carton and Charles Darnay, the son of French aristocrats, whose lives become linked through Lucie Manette. As the Reign of Terror unfolds, the characters face the consequences of revolution, loyalty and sacrifice.

The production features set design by Max Jones, costume design by Kinnetia Isidore, lighting design by Ben Jacobs, sound design by Richard Hammarton, music by Barnaby Race, casting by Helena Palmer and fight direction by Jonathan Holby. Leo Butler will act as dramaturg. The production is supported by a repayable grant from Arts Council England through its Incentivising Touring programme.

The theatre has also announced a new production for younger audiences, The Reluctant Dragon, based on the story by Kenneth Grahame. The musical will play in the venue’s studio space during the Christmas 2026 season.

The show has a book and lyrics by Samson Hawkins and will be directed by Lucy Wray, with designs by Charlotte Espiner. The story follows a child who discovers a dragon living in a nearby cave and learns that the creature prefers poetry and sunshine to fighting. Together with a knight, the child attempts to persuade the villagers that not all dragons are dangerous.

Both productions will go on general sale on 30 March.