Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 26th July 2025
Reviewed by Jacqui Radford
4****
An adaptation of a classic novel to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, this production feels like it has been written and performed as a gift for Jane Austen herself. Written by the Worcester Repertory Company, the performance promises an evening of fun with well loved characters.
The production does not betray the original storyline or the turmoil of romance that is written through Austen’s novel. Focussed on the lives of the Dashwood sisters Elinor and Marianne negotiating a change in circumstance and romantic encounters, it delivers a succinct summary of the key events. The small cast and local reference all add to the feel of a personalised production.
Elinor and Marianne, played by Julia Bentley and Charlotte Swarbrick, are the mainstays of the production. Bringing the story to life, they each provide a commentary of insight as the play progresses and expertly switch to portraying the key events as they unfold.
On their ‘downgrade’ to a country cottage, Elinor and Marianne establish new connections while maintaining links with their previous life, adding drama aplenty.
The injections of humour are brought to the occasion by the actors (just three) playing the roles of Edward and Robert Ferrars, Willoughby, Colonel Brandon, Sir John Middleton, Lucy Steele and Mrs Jenkins. The exaggerated portrayal of their characters is captivating but their unexpected switches to animal role play are hands down the icing on the cake!
If you are looking for a sincere performance of a Jane Austen classic, this may not be your cup of tea. If you’re looking for a performance that will cement the plot in your mind and leave you chuckling at the brilliance of unexpected twists and absurdity, put a date in your diary for a great birthday performance.