The Marlowe Theatre has unveiled two upcoming productions for 2026, including a stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Tale of Two Cities and a musical of The Reluctant Dragon. These additions highlight the venue’s commitment to both classic drama and family-friendly theatre.

A Tale of Two Cities will run at the Marlowe Theatre from 14 to 19 September 2026, with a press night on 17 September. This production, directed by Michael Fentiman, is based on the novel by Charles Dickens and adapted for the stage by Terence Rattigan and John Gielgud. After the Marlowe run, the show will embark on a UK tour, with further casting and tour dates yet to be announced.

Set in Paris during the 1770s, the story centres on English barrister Sydney Carton and Charles Darnay, the son of French aristocrats, whose lives become intertwined through Lucie Manette. As the Reign of Terror unfolds, themes of revolution, loyalty, and sacrifice take centre stage.

The production features a creative team including set design by Max Jones, costume design by Kinnetia Isidore, lighting by Ben Jacobs, and sound design by Richard Hammarton. Music is composed by Barnaby Race, casting is overseen by Helena Palmer, and fight direction by Jonathan Holby. Leo Butler serves as dramaturg for the show.

This staging benefits from a repayable grant from Arts Council England’s Incentivising Touring programme, supporting the show’s touring ambitions.

For younger audiences, the Marlowe has announced The Reluctant Dragon, a musical set to play in the theatre’s studio space during Christmas 2026. Based on Kenneth Grahame’s story, the show has book and lyrics by Samson Hawkins and is directed by Lucy Wray, with designs by Charlotte Espiner.

The tale follows a child who discovers a dragon living in a nearby cave, learning that the creature prefers poetry and sunshine to fighting. Together with a knight, the child tries to convince villagers that not all dragons are dangerous.

Tickets for both productions will go on general sale on 30 March.