Sense and Sensibility Photo: Supplied
Adriana Calabrese Photo: Supplied
Penny Ashton Photo: Kate Little
Sisters, suitors and swooning - the Dashwood family is getting a raucous spin in this latest iteration of Sense and Sensibility at Circa Theatre.
Known for her more energetic one-woman shows, playing a plethora of characters, Penny Ashton has found herself in the director’s chair for the first time. Her love of literature on stage has taken her all around the world, performing in more than 1000 solo shows.
In Jane Austen’s romantic tale, close but contrasting sisters, Elinor and Marianne are seeking love and happiness after being left destitute upon their father’s death. The family home is given to their half-brother John, and although advised by their father to look after the sisters, John is discouraged by his wife and fails to fulfil his duty and promise.
In the past few years, the soaring popularity of Bridgerton has given younger audiences a modern day glimpse into the Regency era with the storylines and soundtracks have taken over social media.
In this modern Sense and Sensibility, six women bring to life 24 characters on stage. Actors Lily Moore and Adriana Calabrese portray the Dashwood sisters, while the other 22 characters including the dashing Mr Willoughby and sensible Colonel Brandon, are played by four other actors - each taking on at least five roles. A feat for the entire cast to both keep track and keep up with the play.
Penny Ashton and Adriana Calabrese join Perlina Lau of Culture 101 to discuss bringing this play to life and the relevance of Jane Austen.
