REVIEW: Sense and Sensibility Finds Its Inner Clown at Stratford
Discover a Playful Take on Jane Austen’s Classic
When looking for a theatrical escape that promises laughter rather than tedium, Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel Sense and Sensibility at Stratford is your ticket to merriment. Instead of merely echoing the weighty themes of 19th-century courtship, this riotous production invites audiences to chuckle at its delightful absurdities.
A Hilarious Start
The laughter kicks off immediately: a corpse comically flops from above, landing with a resounding thud on stage. This sets the tone for a performance that embraces physical comedy and visual gags, steering far away from the stuffy period drama you’d expect.
Plot Overview: More Soap Opera Than Drama
While Austen’s original narrative follows the Dashwood sisters—practical Elinor and passionate Marianne—as they navigate societal expectations after their father’s death, the emphasis here is not the plot itself. Instead, the humor lies in the emotional rollercoaster and the whimsical character reactions to life’s ups and downs.
The Heart of Sisterhood
The crux of the play is the rich relationship between Elinor and Marianne. Portrayed by Jessica B. Hill, Elinor’s character must walk a fine line. Too much reserve risks blending her into the background; too little could strip away her dignity. Hill masterfully opens a window into her character’s inner turmoil, balancing the tension between sense and sensibility.
In contrast, Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane’s Marianne brings the fervor of passion to the stage. Her wild emotions are dangerously close to parody but endearingly serve to remind the audience just how relatable love’s tribulations can be.
Energy and Ensemble
With a robust cast of 20, the stage vibrates with energy. Many actors slide seamlessly between roles, showcasing quick costume changes and varied accents. Jade V. Robinson shines as both the curious Margaret and the cunning Lucy Steele, effortlessly making both characters indelible through her comic expressions and physicality.
Embracing Absurdity
In a clever twist, the entire ensemble celebrates the farcical aspects of Austen’s narrative, breathing fresh life into a story that can sometimes feel outdated. With exaggerated gestures and sparkling facial expressions, the cast invites the audience into a playful world where courtship feels unbearably funny.
The Chorus of Gossips
One of the standout elements is the chorus of five gossips, whose presence consistently amplifies the social pressures of the era. Clad in vibrant, colorful costumes, reminiscent of a Georgian rave, these lively figures bring the story’s undercurrents to life. They not only narrate the action but also function as a living stage crew, skillfully managing scenery transitions and even voicing non-human characters—like rambunctious dogs or playful horses.
Without these gossips, particularly standout performers Jesse Gervais and Christopher Allen, the story feels slightly barren. Their spirited commentary and antics can transform a plain woodland scene into a vibrant spectacle—will there be gossip? Will there be drama? The audience leans in with anticipation.
Dynamic Stagecraft
Despite being a dialogue-heavy play, this presentation is in constant motion. Wheeled furniture glides effortlessly across the stage, contributing to an energetic atmosphere that sidesteps stagnation. This clever use of simple stagecraft keeps the narrative flowing, ensuring the audience remains engaged.
Conclusion: A Lighthearted Retreat
This version of Sense and Sensibility doesn’t claim to provide groundbreaking insights on marriage, money, or gender. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine. Sometimes, what we need is not a sharp social critique but a refreshing escape into a frivolous world of flirtation, whispered secrets, and, let’s not forget, floofy hats and feathered gowns.
So, whether you’re a Jane Austen aficionado or new to her works, this lighthearted take on Sense and Sensibility is sure to engage, entertain, and leave you laughing long after the curtains close. If you’re curious about the production dates or tickets, check out Stratford Festival for more details!
