Hard Times

The fictitious northern English industrial town of Coketown is the setting for Hard Times (1854). Under the strict guidance of their father, a schoolteacher, Louisa and Tom learn to suppress feelings and creativity. Sissy, the abandoned child of a circus acrobat, brings compassion and imagination into their lives. At the same time, the city's factory workers rise up against exploitation and injustice. The novel tells of the pursuit of justice and optimism in an age determined by the rhythm of machines – and will now be presented as a musical experience with singing and acting.