Austen Con 2021

This event is a celebration and exploration of the Jane Austen universe. Workshops, presentations and performances on aspects such as Regency dancing, letter writing, sewing, music and fashion all helped to bring this world to life. The enthusiasm for this event reveals a real appetite to lose oneself in the whimsical and romantic nature of Austen’s wit and social commentary. 

Austen Con featured international experts who provided insight on the writer, her books and the culture within which she produced work that remains valid today. These informative talks were organised via live Zoom links and were highly engaging. Austen’s critical eye and especially her feminist themes were among the many aspects addressed in the talks. Sam Hirst, a Teaching Fellow at Liverpool University, examined the Gothic genre and the mysteries surrounding Northanger Abbey. Hirst’s forensic exploration of the way Gothic literature and culture is deeply intertwined in the narrative and characterisations was detailed and insightful. 

One of the highlights of the day was the presentation by Zan Cammack and Diane Neu. Their talk titled A Network Of Spies And Scandal: Pamphlets In Regency England equated the practice of producing pamphlets with modern day social media and gossip culture. Drawing these links to the important ways in which individuals wielded social or political power in this era made the presentation fascinating and extremely entertaining. The expertise and charisma of the speakers was tangible and elicited some exquisite examples of pamphleteering from the audience. 

Austen Con also included an Escape Room activity which was devised by mystery writer and podcaster, Dani Siller. The experience tests the imagination and the problem-solving skills of the participants. The intricately woven story undoubtedly captured the intrigue and mystery often conjured up by Austen. This was presented as an audio-only escape room which would have benefitted from a more alluring location and contextualisation. The exercise was interesting and challenging but at times frustrating. 

Austen Con 2021 was also a great opportunity to preview the upcoming production of Sense and Sensibility: the Musical, projected for March 2022 at Gasworks. The preview of the musical showcased some great vocal talent which included numbers by some of the cast members. The show is an original composition by Daniel Hernandez (music) and Sharmini Kumar (book & lyrics). At the preview Lilliana Braumberger (Elinor) and Chloe Towan (Marianne) displayed a vibrant and impish approach to the performances and gave moving and powerful renditions of their songs.

Abbotsford Convent is the perfect location for Austen Con where the Regency costumes worn by many of the participants, presenters and organisers adorned the historical location. This is an event which truly indulges the interest and dedication of Austen lovers, and anyone interested in learning more about this important and iconic author.

Patricia Di Risio