Richard Thomas Brings a Fresh Take to Atticus Finch in ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ Stage Show in Thousand Oaks

Iconic actor Richard Thomas is set to bring a modern twist to the revered character of Atticus Finch in the upcoming stage production of ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ at the Fred Kavli Theatre in Thousand Oaks.

Best known for his role as John-Boy Walton on the beloved CBS series, Thomas has been portraying the heroic lawyer Finch in a national tour of the show for over two years, with the tour’s final performances taking place in Ventura County this week.

Having recently relocated from New York City to Los Angeles, Thomas expressed his admiration for the scenic beauty of Ventura County, where he will be showcasing his acting talents on stage for the first time.

The play, based on Harper Lee‘s renowned novel and adapted for the stage by Aaron Sorkin, delves deep into Finch’s character, adding layers of complexity and humor that set Thomas’ portrayal apart from the classic rendition by Gregory Peck.

Mary Badham, an Oscar-nominated actress known for her role as Scout in the 1962 film adaptation of the story, will be joining Thomas on stage as Mrs. Dubose, a pivotal character in the narrative.

Sorkin’s script also shines a spotlight on the powerful roles of key Black characters like Calpurnia and Tom Robinson, highlighting the story’s enduring relevance in today’s social and political landscape.

Thomas emphasizes the play’s exploration of civil rights issues, acknowledging the progress made while underscoring the ongoing challenges society faces, making the production a poignant reflection on past and present struggles.

Following his stint in ‘To Kill A Mockingbird,’ Thomas will gear up for a role in the Broadway revival of ‘Our Town,’ further showcasing his versatility and talent on the stage.

The curtain will rise on the performances at the Fred Kavli Theatre with varying ticket prices, offering audiences in Thousand Oaks a captivating theatrical experience.

For more information on tickets and showtimes, visit the American Theatre Guild website or contact the venue directly.

Dave Mason, covering East County for the Ventura County Star, can be reached for further inquiries about the production and Thomas’ involvement in the show.