Searing Sci-Fi Classic Heats Up the Stage at the IRT

Original artwork by Kyle Ragsdale

Searing Sci-Fi Classic Heats Up the Stage at the Indiana Repertory Theatre
Fahrenheit 451 offers glimpse into dystopian future in this relevant adaptation

Indianapolis, Ind.— Indiana Repertory Theatre lights a fire in this cold winter with the dystopian classic, Fahrenheit 451. Published in 1953, this science fiction classic by Ray Bradbury is even more relevant today as the play sparks questions surrounding society’s use of technology, value of the freedom of thought, and more. This literary tale will be live on the OneAmerica Mainstage January 26  February 20 and available for streaming on select dates in February.

“Just months ago we were celebrating the transformational power of literature in The Book Club Play. Now, we imagine a world where our modern-day heroes are keeping us from the joy and imagination and freedom we receive from these same beloved books. Bradbury’s dystopia invites us all to consider our relationship to technology and ask the simple and important question: ‘Are you happy?’” said Benjamin Hanna, IRT’s Associate Artistic Director and Director of Fahrenheit 451.

In Fahrenheit 451, the written word is forbidden and firemen are paid to burn books instead of fight fires. When the main character, fireman Montag, starts to read the books he is supposed to burn, he begins to question the life he leads. Now he must choose between continuing his regimented existence or risk everything for the right to think.

“Bradbury’s 1953 novel, set in an unidentified future, was more prescient than perhaps even he knew, and we are fascinated to have discussions with audiences about how this work lands for them today. We will hope the art can ignite purposeful discussion about the importance of ideas and discourse and the preservation of classic texts,” said Janet Allen, IRT’s Margot Lacy Eccles Artistic Director.


HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES
IRT’s focus on artistry is also matched by its focus on safety, and entry to the IRT will require a mask and photo ID, as well as proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test (administered no more than 72 hours prior to the performance). This vaccine and mask requirement will also apply to IRT artists (except when performing), staff, and volunteer ushers.

Please visit irtlive.com/faq for the full information regarding IRT’s health and safety policies.

DETAILS

WHERE: Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington Street, OneAmerica Mainstage. Streaming online via irtlivevirtual.com. 

RUN DATES: Live in-person January 26 – February 20, 2022, various times. Due to licensing agreements, Fahrenheit 451 will be available for streaming on select days and times only starting February 10, 2022. 

Fahrenheit 451 is approximately 2 hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Tickets and performance schedule are available at IRTlive.com.

TICKETS: Tickets for live performances start at $25. Click to buy. Virtual tickets are $30. Click to buy.

CAST & CREATIVE TEAM:
AMIR ABDULLAH  | Montag
JANYCE CARABALLO  | Clarisse & Others
TIM DECKER  | Beatty & Others
JENNIFER JOHANSEN  | Mildred, Mrs. Hudson, & Others
HENRY WORONICZ  | Faber, Aristotle, & Others

BENJAMIN HANNA  | Director
WILLIAM BOLES | Scenic Designer
IZUMI INABA  | Costume Designer
MICHELLE HABECK  | Lighting Designer
KEVIN O’DONNELL  | Sound Designer
RASEAN DAVONTE JOHNSON  | Projection Designer
RICHARD J ROBERTS  | Dramaturg
NATHAN GARRISON  | Stage Manager
BECKY ROEBER  | Assistant Stage Manager


SPECIAL EVENTS:
This production will have a filmed pre-show chat and post-show discussion available for viewing. 

For more information contact Danielle M. Dove, Director of Marketing & Sales at ddove@irtlive.com or 317.916.4878

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ABOUT THE IRT
Founded in 1971, the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) is the largest professional not-for-profit theatre in the state and one of the leading regional theatres in the country. The mission of the Indiana Repertory Theatre is to produce top-quality, professional theatre and related activities, providing experiences that will engage, surprise, challenge, and entertain people throughout their lifetimes, helping us build a vital and vibrant community.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA): The IRT strives to celebrate and serve the diverse people and cultures that make up our whole community. The IRT is committed to providing access for all; to creating and maintaining an antiracist Theatre that is inclusive, safe, and respectful.

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