"Sense and Sensibility" presented by the Stolen Shakespeare Guild

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
play program

The Stolen Shakespeare Guild recently presented a stage version of Jane Austen's much loved story, "Sense and Sensibility". The play was adapted by Jessica Swale and she did a very excellent job of setting the action to a stage environment..  Having seen several versions of this book in movie format, the play was able to capture all the action, angst and unrequited love as told by Jane.

Jane Austen

The program provided a short synopsis which The Travelling Toe will try to shorten even more if possible.

Mrs. Dashwood, the 2nd wife of the late Henry Dashwood, is booted out of the house by her step-son John Dashwood and his very unkind wife, Fanny.  Mrs. Dashwood and her three daughters, Elinor, Marianne and Margaret, take refuge in a cottage provided by distant relations, the Middletons.  Elinor has become attached to Edward Ferrars, but his mother has plans for his future and they don't include Elinor.  Marianne becomes infatuated with Willoughby but he leaves the countryside unexpectedly and she becomes overwrought with grief. Throw in handsome and dashing Colonel Brandon and you have the makings of a very lovely melodrama.  

The Travelling Toe will leave the narrative at this point as if you are familiar with the Dashwood family then you know how it ends. And if you  do not not know the story then you can find out what happens by reading the book, watching one of the movies or seeing it in play form. It is a sweet story that reflects the culture of a different era.

This play is in a small theater which make it feel very intimate in connecting with the actors. This particular theatrical group always performs miracles with costumes, hairstyles,and stage settings.

Below is the stage area set up in 3 different and distinct settings that support the action taking place within the play. 

We had a delightful time with "Jane" and all her characters. All the actors in this production were excellent and brought the story to life.  We have always enjoyed the productions of the Stolen Shakespeare Guild and will endeavor to continue to attend their performances.

Stolen Shakespeare Guild