Following the original rendition of this classic Charles Dickens tale, various adaptations have emerged, each exploring the contrasting themes of the best and worst of times, as depicted in the tale. A classic love triangle, a hefty power gap, and an overdue revolution; tying into the prominent message of oppression, hope, and sacrifice that Dickens was trying to convey. Since the original 1859 release, many editions have been released, from films, to eBooks, to multiple onstage productions. What sets this production apart from others is its unique blend of entertainment and relevance to the fabric of Atlanta’s contemporary climate, producing a deeper connection between the stage and the pace of the city. A Tale of Two Cities is just one of many creations that gives the Alliance an opportunity to do just that. This season, the theater constructed its very own impression of the well-known tale, incorporating a twist through its unique character portrayal, featuring eight actors playing multiple roles, providing a dynamic perspective on the powerful and powerless.
Within this adaptation, there are multiple elements that deem it unique, beginning with the portrayal of the characters themselves. There are eight actors who will be seen throughout the production, each of them playing multiple roles, some with just four, and some with as many as eleven. With over fifty characters in this single production, this allows an even bigger window for actors to stretch far and beyond to present this highly dynamic piece. Each individual actor’s roles include an opportunity for them to hold a position of power and a position of powerlessness. Both renditions travel back in time to the mid- to late-1700s, taking place during the duration of the French Revolution, which happens to be the prime mover of the plot. This setting automatically sets the tone for the piece, the dynamic between characters, and the overall booming chaos that occurred during that period.
Another main element incorporated with this rendition that separates it from others and makes it much more amusing is the audience interactivity that is involved. The audience is occasionally intertwined throughout the show, making them a fun addition to the characters and show’s overall dynamic. With this addition, the actors break the fourth wall, inviting the audience to have a vocal reaction to the action happening onstage.
As previously stated, the Alliance has a particular goal of relating their productions to the raw realities we face today. With instances of unjust laws and complete disregard for the wellbeing of the poor population, these themes are somewhat parallel to what occurs in the real world of the current America and, if we dissect even further, we see a lot of it specifically in Atlanta. In fact, Atlanta has one of the worst income equalities in the entire nation and, statistically, a person who is born into poverty only has a 4% chance of escaping it. The modern-day working class are often disregarded and treated unjustly in the workforce, which is demonstrated within the production by the mistreatment towards the servants from those in power.
As you dive into the harsh and realistic world of A Tale of Two Cities, take note of what you observe. Which themes stand out to you? How do you personally connect them to the real world? Give yourself a chance to discover the underlying concepts of the best and worst of times.
