Sense and Sensibility, playing at the Arcola Theatre, is based on one of Jane Austin’s most popular romantic novels.

Following the death of Elinor Dashwood’s (Rachel Liddell) father, her family’s finances are severely reduced. Thanks to the kindness of her friends, the Middletons, they relocate to a cottage in Devonshire. Here Marianne Dashwood (Elora Rose Ledger) finds herself choosing between the dashing John Willoughby (Matthew Tilley) and the older Colonel Brandon (John Faal). Meanwhile, Elinor’s romantic hopes with Edward Ferrars (James Beddoe) are hindered due to his prior engagement. Sense and Sensibility lends itself to the comic opera-musical theatre treatment and this version is surprising successful.

The set design is intentionally understated, consisting of only a table and two chairs repositioned by the cast as needed. This minimalism keeps the focus on character and gesture. Costumes summon the Regency era with empire waisted dresses, elaborate hats, and scarlet uniforms. Although there were a couple of wardrobe malfunctions.

Lively and bright, the music is more Sullivan than Wagner, expertly played by the trio of very talented musicians who occupy the rear of the stage.

Rachel Liddell is near perfect as Elinor, reserved and intelligent contrasting with Ledger’s more impetuous and daring Marrianne. Alexandra Cowell’s portrayal of both the snobbish Fanny Dashwood and exuberant Mrs Jennings are hilarious, such different characters showcase her versatility. Beddoe’s plays Edward as delightfully awkward, whilst John Faal and Matthew Tilley play a multitude of roles with aplomb.  Some of the quick changes had to be covered with a quip for late appearances and Mrs Jennings remarked that she never seemed to be at home at the same time as Mrs Dashwood.

The theatrical nature of the production is most effectively represented by the ensemble known as the Gossips. Masked and played by the cast, they function as a kind of Greek Chorus, moving in and out of scenes as they voice public judgment.

This adaptation often favours broad comedy over Austen’s subtler ironies, but it does allow the production to appeal to a wider audience.

Warm, witty, and elegant. 

4 stars

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

https://www.arcolatheatre.com/grimeborn/

Cast

Elinor Dashwood         Rachel Liddell

Marianne Dashwood/Lucy Steele     Elora Rose Ledger

Mrs Jennings                   Alexandra Cowell       

Colonel Brandon         John Faal          

Edward Ferrars              James Beddoe

John Willoughby           Matthew Tilley

Creatives

Director                              Alexandra Cowell

Musical Director Guy Murgatroyd

Book and lyrics  Jeffrey Haddow

Music Neil Hampton

Producer Elora Ledger

Company Stage Manager      Charlotte Tingley

Cello  Daryl Giuliano

Violin  Felicity Broome-Skelton