Reduxion Theatre company brings new play to Oklahoma City
Husband and Wife Team Produces Sexy World Premiere of “Tom Jones”
OKLAHOMA CITY – Reduxion Theatre Company (RTC) produces the new stage play “The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling” in Oklahoma City. This new play is developed by RTC founders and married couple, Tyler and Erin Woods. Written by Erin and directed by Tyler, this world premiere play based on Henry Fielding’s classic 1749 novel is set in England and follows the risqué adventures of a handsome young man with a lust for life and an eye for the ladies.
The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, is an 18thcentury novel, part romantic comedy, part social commentary and all action adventure. The book was one of the first novels ever written and has been the subject of many film and television versions including the popular 1963 movie, “Tom Jones,” starring Albert Finney.
The film was so popular that the up-and-coming English singer, Thomas John Woodward, changed his name to that of the title character, “Tom Jones,” in the early 1960s because he liked the racy persona.
“The story is remarkably ahead of its time,” said RTC Managing Director and playwright, Erin Woods. The title character is good-hearted and not concerned with how people see him. “It is a commentary on how the appearance of goodness is different from true honesty and integrity.” But most people know “Tom Jones” as a sexy, sword-fighting, adventure story.
There is sex and violence throughout the play. “It’s a ‘bodice-ripper,’” said Erin. “Tom Jones” is a comedy about human nature; our follies and propensity toward vice. “I wanted a play that stayed true to the original novel, which is quite racy.” This show is not for younger audiences.
RTC has a reputation for creating new art based on classic stories. “We aim to be artistically inventive and fresh,” said Tyler Woods, RTC Artistic Director & production director for “Tom Jones.” Oklahoma audiences are interested in live performance that surprise and challenge them. “We will bring them something they have never seen before,” said Tyler, “Even if they know the story of ‘Tom Jones,’ this new play is full of surprises.”
The production uses experimental movement styles, theatrical pantomime, puppetry, innovative stage-combat practices and RTC’s original brand of “theatre-in-your-lap” audience-interaction. Additionally, the boundary-pushing period costuming includes Marie Antoinette-style tall powdered wigs and giant hoop-skirts. “It’s visually stunning, fast-paced, fun and provocative.”
As founders of RTC, Tyler and Erin share a vision for the theatre company, but “Tom Jones” is the first project they have developed together. “Working with Tyler as the director of my new script has been great,” said Erin. “He brings such innovation and accessibility to live theatre. We share a focus on ensemble-based performance and a true sense of fun in storytelling; I think that makes us a good team.”
The new play “History of Tom Jones, a Foundling,” opens on Friday, May 3rd. Performances run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, through May 25th, with two Sunday matinées, May 12thand May 19that 2:00 pm.
All performances are at Reduxion’s performance venue, The Broadway Theater, at 1613 North Broadway Avenue in Oklahoma City. There will a special opening night after-party on Friday, May 3rddirectly following the show. The party is offered at no additional charge to audience members.
The production includes adult themes and is intended for mature audiences; no children, please.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $17 for students, seniors and military with I.D. A free parking lot is adjacent to the theater. Additional street parking is available. Tickets are available for purchase online at reduxiontheatre.com or at the door, before each performance.
About Reduxion Theatre Company:
Reduxion’s performance venue, the Broadway Theater, is located at 1613 North Broadway Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73103. For more details, directions or to order tickets visit reduxiontheatre.com.
Reduxion Theatre Company is a non-profit corporation with a mission to professionally produce both classical and contemporary theater, enriching Oklahoma’s cultural, educational and economic climate, attracting artists and audiences from around the world.