Georgia playwright Lauren Gunderson’s “The Revolutionists” is a darkly humorous drama set amidst the French Revolution, uniting four unexpected heroines — playwright Olympe de Gouges, assassin Charlotte Corday, former queen Marie Antoinette, and Haitian insurgent Marianne Angelle — who grapple with artistry, brutality, heritage, and the significance of transformation in tumultuous times.

Gunderson, hailing from Decatur and recognized as one of the most frequently staged playwrights in the nation, is celebrated for merging wit, history, and humanity to explore how narratives influence societal movements.

Director Asia Meana remarked that the rehearsal journey has revolved around what she refers to as the “revolutionary heartbeat.”

“My cast entered the scene and shaped the narrative,” Meana commented. “They experienced it as well — each in their own unique manner — and wove their interpretations into a shared expression. The piece you will encounter is a result of that collaboration.”

Costume designer Nathanael Tria noted that the team approached the production with a focus on parallels between the past and the present.

“These ties to history are what propel ‘The Revolutionists,’” Tria mentioned.

Scenic designer Lindsey Taylor added that the “paper theater” aesthetic of the set symbolizes the volatility of the revolutionary era, while lighting designer Andrew Neal highlighted that the design accentuates “the uniqueness of Gunderson’s characters.”

Performances will take place at the Morton Theatre, located at 195 W Washington St., on Sept. 25-26, 30, and Oct. 1-2 at 8 p.m., with matinee shows on Sept. 28 and Oct. 5 at 2 p.m. The performance on Oct. 2 will include ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation for deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees.

Julie Ray, head of the theatre and film studies department at the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, mentioned that the partnership with the Morton Theatre has been a crucial aspect of the production.

“We’re excited to present this story in a venue as historically important as the Morton,” Ray stated. “Our cast and crew have deeply invested in this project, and we eagerly anticipate sharing it with audiences.”

Tickets are priced at $18 or $6 for UGA students and can be reserved at ugatheatre.com/revolution, by phone at 706-542-4400, or in-person at the Performing Arts Center or Tate Center box offices.

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