by Haley Culliton
If you’ve had the pleasure of watching Alfred Hitchcock’s 1948 film adaptation of our upcoming show, then you’re in for a treat as we present the original masterpiece! Join us as we bring ‘Rope,’ the 1929 play by Patrick Hamilton, to the stage at OACT. While Hitchcock’s film faithfully preserves the core plot and characters of Hamilton’s script, there are some intriguing differences between the two versions.
Hitchcock, the master of suspense, took Patrick Hamilton’s already gripping play and gave it his signature cinematic look. The film places its characters in the bustling streets of New York City in the late 1940s, a departure from the original play’s backdrop of 1920s London. This change in setting not only added a fresh dimension to the story but also allowed Hitchcock to infuse his unique style into the film. The harsher bustling atmosphere of post-war New York becomes an integral part of the narrative, creating a tension that permeates every scene.
In adapting ‘Rope’ for the silver screen, Hitchcock introduced additional characters to the gathering, adding complexity and intrigue to the story. These new characters not only served to enhance the suspense but also allowed Hitchcock to navigate the Hollywood censorship codes of his time. Despite these additions, Hitchcock managed to capture the essence of Hamilton’s play while making necessary adjustments for the medium of film. The result is a faithful adaptation that stands as a unique cinematic gem, showcasing the director’s mastery of suspense and storytelling.
The original play, ‘Rope,’ had its own renown and audience when it was originally written and performed. Still, Hitchcock’s adaptation brought the story to a far broader audience due to his status as a renowned filmmaker internationally. Hitchcock’s name alone drew audiences from around the world, introducing them to the gripping narrative of ‘Rope’ and Patrick Hamilton’s ability to tell remarkable stories. For many, Hitchcock’s film was their first encounter with this thrilling tale of intrigue and murder.
Under the skilled direction of Kimberly Demmary, this thrilling piece promises to captivate audiences once more as it takes the stage at the Ojai Art Center Theater. As we prepare to usher in the autumn season, ‘Rope’ will serve as the perfect spine-chiller for theater enthusiasts and suspense lovers alike.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the tension, mystery, and intrigue of ‘Rope’ live on stage. Secure your tickets now before they mysteriously vanish into thin air. Join us for an unforgettable evening of suspense and drama at OACT, where Patrick Hamilton’s original timeless story comes to life once more, thrilling and captivating audiences just as it did when it first premiered in 1929.
Reserve your tickets for ROPE today!
