The Citadel Theatre has saved the best for last this season with its dazzling production of Cyrano de Bergerac, a swashbuckling tale of love, wit, and swordplay that is sure to bring audiences to their feet. Running through May 24 on the main stage, this adaptation by local playwright Jessy Ardern breathes new life into the classic story of the Gascon with the giant nose and razor-sharp mind.
A Hero of Exceptional Talents
Cyrano de Bergerac is a man of unmatched abilities, both with a rapier and with words. He is so skilled at sword fighting that he challenges himself to spit rhymes while slicing up opponents, just to feel alive. The play opens at the theatre, where Cyrano defends the honor of his cousin and secret love, Roxane. His linguistic prowess is so formidable that he even manages to rhyme the notoriously difficult word "orange."
The Love Triangle
Roxane, however, is smitten with the handsome but intellectually modest Christian. She asks Cyrano to protect Christian, and Cyrano goes further than she intended, secretly composing love letters and speeches that pour out his own feelings for Roxane. This sets up the famed love triangle at the heart of the story.
Stellar Performances
Scott Shpeley delivers an acting clinic as Cyrano, portraying the deeply flawed yet deeply human hero with stunning depth. His quick temper and ignorance of consequence are balanced by a palpable vulnerability that breaks open his heart before the audience. Darren Martens plays Christian with a million-megawatt smile, embodying the perfect foil to Cyrano's wit. Stephanie Sy makes her Citadel debut as Roxane, masterfully juggling her love interests while maintaining an air of innocence and agency in a turbulent world.
Direction and Design
Directed by Amanda Goldberg, the production features an epic minimalist set design. Floating masonry at various depths creates a grand feel without crowding the action. Every element on stage complements Cyrano's rhyming prowess, keeping the focus on the story.
Adaptation by Jessy Ardern
Playwright Jessy Ardern deserves high praise for crafting a fresh and witty adaptation that feels bouncy, lively, and fun. She plays with language and rhymes, making a story set nearly 400 years ago feel relevant and exciting for 21st-century audiences.
A Must-See Show
Cyrano de Bergerac is easily The Citadel's best show of the season, hitting all the right notes in a brilliant, updated package. Theatre fans in the city should not miss it.
Performance Details
- Written by: Edmond Rostand, adapted by Jessy Ardern
- Directed by: Amanda Goldberg
- Starring: Scott Shpeley, Stephanie Sy, Alexander Ariate, Darren Martens
- When: Through May 24
- Where: The Citadel, 9828 101A Ave.
- Tickets: Starting at $40, available at citadeltheatre.com or by calling 780-425-1820
