Review: CYRANO DE BERGERAC Sweeps Edmonton Off Its Feet at The Citadel Theatre
Directed by Amanda Goldberg and written by Jessy Ardern, this world premiere follows a clever French swordsman/poet, Cyrano.
The Citadel Theatre’s 2025/2026 season concludes with a gorgeous new adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s 1897 romantic drama, Cyrano de Bergerac. Directed by Amanda Goldberg and written by Jessy Ardern, this world premiere follows a clever French swordsman/poet, Cyrano. He is well known by his fellow townspeople for his sharp wit, often-reckless bravery, and, much to his chagrin, his extremely prominent nose. He quietly yearns for his childhood friend, Roxane, only to be devastated when she confesses her love for a handsome soldier named Christian. Heartbroken, Cyrano reluctantly acts as messenger between Roxane and Christian. After witnessing Christian’s awkward attempts to woo Roxane, Cyrano offers to write Roxane love letters, pretending to be Christian.
At the heart of the production is Scott Shpeley’s humorous and heartbreaking portrayal of Cyrano. Whether dueling an angry nobleman or penning a tear-stained letter on a battlefield, Shpeley’s Cyrano is compelling in his earnestness and a protagonist to root for. Starring opposite him is Stephanie Sy as the charming, quick-witted aristocrat, Roxane. Like Cyrano, Roxane openly expresses vulnerability, longing to be loved and respected as she truly is. She is captivated by the equally infatuated Christian (Darren Martins), meeting with him in secret while evading an unwanted admirer: the sleazy, married Comte de Guiche (Brian Hamman). Though Roxane is vigilant, she also counts on her stern, bonnet-wearing, pistol-toting chaperone, Marie (Megan McArton).
From the moment the curtain rises, Cyrano de Bergerac immerses the audience in 1640s France. Beyata Hackborn’s sets evoke the grit of taverns, alleyways, and battlefields; the tavern’s flickering, tiered chandeliers and cathedral-like arches are particularly striking. Deanna Finnman’s striking, often-intricate costumes include feathered hats, sherbet-coloured gowns, billowing cloaks, and bow-adorned shoes. The clever script brims with swoon-worthy declarations and sly turns of phrase that are only occasionally heavy-handed.
Until May 24, audiences are invited to fall in love with this humorous and heartbreaking new production.
Photo by Nanc Price for the Citadel Theatre’s production of Cyrano de Bergerac (2026). Featuring (from left to right) Scott Shpeley and Stephanie Sy. For full cast and creative credits please visit citadeltheatre.com.
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