Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, which implicitly interpret, critique, and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Austen's plots often explore the dependence of women on marriage for the pursuit of favourable social standing and economic security. Her deft use of social commentary, realism and biting irony have earned her acclaim among critics and scholars. Since her death Austen's novels have rarely been out of print.
Sense and Sensibility was her second novel, published in 1811, and was followed up by Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Mansfield Park and Persuasion. Her first novel, Northanger Abbey was not published until after her death.
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Jessica Swale is know for both original works and adaptations. Her first play, Blue Stockings, premiered at Shakespeare's Globe in 2013. It is widely performed by UK amateur companies and is also studied on the Drama GCSE syllabus. In 2016, her play Nell Gwynn won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, after it transferred from the Globe to the West End. As well as adapting Sense and Sensibility in 2014 she has also adapted Far from the Madding Crowd, The Secret Garden and Stig of the Dump.
She is also a director, both on stage and film, and a screenwriter. She wrote and directed the feature film Summerland in 2020.
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Elinor and Marianne Dashwood are left penniless after their wealthy half-brother cheats them of their fortune. They are forced to leave the comforts of Norland Park and relocate to a cold Devonshire cottage. When a devilishly handsome stranger arrives at Barton Cottage with the rain-drenched Marianne in his arms, the Dashwood girls are convinced that their fortunes are changed forever. Whilst the sensible Elinor pines for quiet Edward Ferrars, impulsive Marianne loses herself in the idea of her hero on horseback, and for a girl who feasts on poetry and music, what else is there to do in Devon but dream of rescue?
Jane Austen's subtle and witty novel of secrets and suppression, lies and seduction, brilliantly portrays a world where rigid social convention clashes with the impulses of the heart.
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| Elinor Dashwood | Fiona Callingham |
| Marianne Dashwood | Nicola Moss |
| Margaret Dashwood | Hannah Scott |
| Lucy Steele | Jo Langfield |
| Fanny Dashwood | Emma Parkin |
| Mrs Jennings | Sarah Ash-Parnell |
| Mrs Dashwood | Chris Allison |
| Mrs Palmer | Bernie Lomas |
| Miss Grey | Bernie Lomas |
| Edward Ferrars | Chris Vanstone |
| Robert Ferrars | James Bogumska-Higgins |
| Mr Palmer | Chris Vanstone |
| Colonel Brandon | Stuart Reilly |
| Willoughby | Peter Ashdown-Knights |
| John Dashwood | James Bogumska-Higgins |
| Sir John Middleton | Alan Welton |
| Thomas | Jaspar Utley |
| Mr Perks | James Bogumska-Higgins |
| Doctor Harris | James Bogumska-Higgins |
Special mention to Emma Swan who had to withdraw from the cast as Lucy Steele at very late notice. She was replaced by Jo Langfield.
Crew
| Director | Fiona Fairhurst |
| Producer | David Penrose |
| Stage Manager | Jacquie Penrose |
| Assistant Stage Manager | Bernie Lomas |
| Lighting Design | Roger Niven |
| Sound Design | Howard Alston |
| Fight Direction | Christian Masters |
| Lighting Operation | Roger Niven |
| Sound Operation | Stephen Mollett |
| Set Design | David Penrose |
| Set Construction | Julie Burt-Wood & members of the Company |
| Flyer Design | Dan Finch |
| Programme Editor | Derek Callam |
| Photography | John Ash |
| Front of House Manager | Ingrid Corrigan |
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