Ryan Craig’s adaption of Emma by Jane Austen is a Theatre Royal Bath production with fitting timing as part of a celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary. I was invited to review the show at Oxford Playhouse.
I have a vague memory of seeing a film version of Emma quite a few years ago but I am by no means an expert on the story as I have not read the book. Seeing an adaption probably suited me more than some as I was not comparing the play to the book.
I did recall that Mr Woodhouse was not quite the character he was on stage in the film I saw. I much preferred William Chubb’s take on the character, he was so amusing with perfect comic timing and this character became much more likeable as a result of the changes to his demeanour.
India Shaw-Smith was a great casting choice as Emma, this character being complex at times; rude with a distinct lack of empathy. I imagine back when the book first appeared in its original form, her behaviour was considered rather scandalous, but this particular adaption was perhaps easier on her with the reactions she evoked from the audience.
Maiya Louise Thapar played Harriet beautifully, and I was surprised to read in the programme that this was her first professional role. I will be interested to see how her career progresses.
The cast worked incredibly well as an ensemble, across the board.
The minimal set and costumes were beautifully designed by Ceci Calf, and allowed for props and the actors themselves to guide the audience’s thoughts on each scene. Lighting by Ben Ormerod was cleverly chosen to evoke tones that would have been around in Austen’s time, especially inside buildings, which made the portrayal of the timeframe feel authentic.
Natasha Harrison did a fantastic job as movement director; the dancing scenes were a joy to watch as were the scene changes where the stage went darker but was backlit, and members of the ensemble moved furniture around with impressive synchronised movements and dramatic flourishes, accompanied by period music. I was not the only one who started laughing a little more each time this happened. It must be hard to create interesting themes for set changes but this was definitely up there in my favourites list.
This adaption of Emma was an entertaining piece with strong performances across the cast.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The tour of this production of Emma continues to Lighthouse, Poole from 11-15 November.
If you would like to see my curtain call photographs from this and other shows, please visit my Instagram.
I was gifted a ticket for this show in exchange for an honest review.
