Theatre Review: The Complete Works Of Jane Austen (Abridged), Alma Tavern Theatre
Summary:
Rating: ★★★★★
Running Dates: Tuesday 8th October - Saturday 19th October 2024
Where to see it: Alma Tavern Theatre
Duration: 80 minutes
Keywords: Sassy, Funny, Modern Twist
Photo Credit: Edward J Felton
Review
Each character is brought to life with sass and flair, breathing new life into Austen’s world and making this adaptation a fun and lighthearted tribute to her timeless stories.
The Alma Tavern Theatre hosted a creative and hilarious performance of The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged), delivering a unique experience for both Austen lovers and modern theatre-goers. In this sharp, witty production, three talented actresses take on the ambitious task of portraying all of Jane Austen’s most beloved characters, seamlessly blending classic literary charm with a delightful modern twist.
They guide the audience through Austen’s world, from Pride and Prejudice to Sense and Sensibility, but with a sassy, contemporary narrative that feels fresh and relatable. Austen’s heroines—Elizabeth Bennet, Emma Woodhouse, and the Dashwood sisters—come to life in ways that you might not expect, with the actresses infusing their portrayals with humour, attitude, and a strong sense of irony. The familiar trials of marriage, love, and societal pressure are explained with modern wit, breaking down the stories for a 21st-century audience.
One of the key highlights of the performance is the trio’s playful take on the material, which keeps the energy high and the audience fully engaged. The cast interact with the crowd, stepping out of character to provide humorous commentary and improv. Each character is brought to life with sass and flair, breathing new life into Austen’s world and making this adaptation a fun and lighthearted tribute to her timeless stories.
Photo Credit: Edward J Felton
Nina’s portrayal of male characters was particularly hilarious, using deep voices and physical comedy to great effect, while her seamless character switches were impressive. Emma’s infectious energy made it impossible not to get swept up in the fun, and Jal’s impeccable comedic timing kept the laughter going throughout the performance. Together, their comedic skill and lively performances ensured the audience was entertained from start to finish.
For Janeites, this show is an absolute must-see, as the playful nods to her stories and characters make it even more enjoyable. But even if you don’t know Austen’s works inside out, The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged) is still a fantastic, light-hearted show that’s easy to love. Whether you’re a dedicated Austen enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this production offers a lively, humorous take on the classics that shouldn’t be missed.
The show is running until the 19th October so snap your ticket soon!
See If: You are a Jane Austen fan or keen reader
Last Impression: Brilliant and funny play, with modern humour and sass
To get tickets for the show click here
We were kindly gifted these tickets in exchange for a review.
Written by Abbie Griffiths
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