Sense and Sensibility

Written by Jane Austen, adapted by Jessica Swale

November 2024

Directed by Fiona Fairhurst

AuthorJane Austen

Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, which implicitly interpret, critique, and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Austen's plots often explore the dependence of women on marriage for the pursuit of favourable social standing and economic security. Her deft use of social commentary, realism and biting irony have earned her acclaim among critics and scholars. Since her death Austen's novels have rarely been out of print.

Sense and Sensibility was her second novel, published in 1811, and was followed up by Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Mansfield Park and Persuasion. Her first novel, Northanger Abbey was not published until after her death.

AdapterJessica Swale

Jessica Swale is know for both original works and adaptations. Her first play, Blue Stockings, premiered at Shakespeare's Globe in 2013. It is widely performed by UK amateur companies and is also studied on the Drama GCSE syllabus. In 2016, her play Nell Gwynn won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, after it transferred from the Globe to the West End. As well as adapting Sense and Sensibility in 2014 she has also adapted Far from the Madding Crowd, The Secret Garden and Stig of the Dump.

She is also a director, both on stage and film, and a screenwriter. She wrote and directed the feature film Summerland in 2020.

PlaySense and Sensibility

Elinor and Marianne Dashwood are left penniless after their wealthy half-brother cheats them of their fortune. They are forced to leave the comforts of Norland Park and relocate to a cold Devonshire cottage. When a devilishly handsome stranger arrives at Barton Cottage with the rain-drenched Marianne in his arms, the Dashwood girls are convinced that their fortunes are changed forever. Whilst the sensible Elinor pines for quiet Edward Ferrars, impulsive Marianne loses herself in the idea of her hero on horseback, and for a girl who feasts on poetry and music, what else is there to do in Devon but dream of rescue?

Jane Austen's subtle and witty novel of secrets and suppression, lies and seduction, brilliantly portrays a world where rigid social convention clashes with the impulses of the heart.

The Bench Production

Sense and Sensibility

Cast

Elinor Dashwood Fiona Callingham
Marianne Dashwood Nicola Moss
Margaret Dashwood Hannah Scott
Lucy Steele Jo Langfield
Fanny Dashwood Emma Parkin
Mrs Jennings Sarah Ash-Parnell
Mrs Dashwood Chris Allison
Mrs Palmer Bernie Lomas
Miss Grey Bernie Lomas
Edward Ferrars Chris Vanstone
Robert Ferrars James Bogumska-Higgins
Mr Palmer Chris Vanstone
Colonel Brandon Stuart Reilly
Willoughby Peter Ashdown-Knights
John Dashwood James Bogumska-Higgins
Sir John Middleton Alan Welton
Thomas Jaspar Utley
Mr Perks James Bogumska-Higgins
Doctor Harris James Bogumska-Higgins

Special mention to Emma Swan who had to withdraw from the cast as Lucy Steele at very late notice. She was replaced by Jo Langfield.

Crew

Director Fiona Fairhurst
Producer David Penrose
Stage Manager Jacquie Penrose
Assistant Stage Manager Bernie Lomas
Lighting Design Roger Niven
Sound Design Howard Alston
Fight Direction Christian Masters
Lighting Operation Roger Niven
Sound Operation Stephen Mollett
Set Design David Penrose
Set Construction Julie Burt-Wood & members of the Company
Flyer Design Dan Finch
Programme Editor Derek Callam
Photography John Ash
Front of House Manager Ingrid Corrigan

Production Photographs