A Tale of Two Cities: Previously in Extremis: NHB Modern Plays

A thrilling, fast-paced adaptation of the classic novel, considered by Dickens 'the best story I have ever written'.

An epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption, interweaving one family’s intensely personal drama with the terror and chaos of the French Revolution. This version of A Tale of Two Cities premiered at Royal & Derngate, Northampton, in February 2014, featuring a large community ensemble alongside the main cast. Mike Poulton's adaptation is ideal for any amateur theatre companies, schools or youth theatres looking to stage a bold and dramatic version of Dickens' classic.

"Gripping… has a cinematic quality… there isn't a dull moment." - Telegraph

"Mike Poulton's adaptation is brilliant… ensures no-one unacquainted with the novel will be baffled." - Observer

"Best of times, worst of times: Mike Poulton takes them both at a gallop in an adaptation that… builds up the terminal velocity of a political thriller." - Guardian

"An atmospheric, appealing adaptation of a novel that remains relevant to our times." - The Stage

Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was an English writer and social critic who is generally regarded as the greatest novelist of the Victorian period.

Mike Poulton is a playwright and translator. His work has been staged at the Donmar Warehouse, Old Vic, Almeida Theatre and for the RSC, amongst others.