Emma

Emma Woodhouse was handsome, clever and rich, according to the famous first line of Jane Austen's much loved novel. This production has a handsome looking cast, a clever script and is rich in characterisation.

The adaptation opens with other characters talking about Emma, giving it a sense of suspense as we waited for her arrival. Although Pamela Whalan manages to confine the action to just two sets it moves in general at a good pace. 

Jane Austen said she wanted to create a heroine that no-one would like much. Emma has led a life of almost twenty one years with "very little to distress or vex her". That is until vanity leads her on a path of interference in other people's courtships.

In the lead role was the appropriately named Emma Wright - complete with a natural British accent. Emma looked like she had waltzed out of a Jane Austen novel, and had a nice portfolio of emotions at her disposal.

With a well-chiseled face, Nathan Bennett played Mr Knightly, the landed gentry, slightly older mentor to Emma, who keeps his desires for her in check.

Also looking perfect for the part was Kathryn Hutchins as Harriet, the easily influence young friend of Emma. 

However it was the comic roles which shone in this production.  Timothy Bennett delighted as the hypochondriac father of the leading lady. Dimitri Armatas was a hoot as the in-your-face vicar who is rebuffed by Emma.

Then Grace Swadling left all for dead with her hilarious portrayal of the overbearing Mrs Elton. She did not so much speak as fired off bullets.

The only slight disappointment was the fact that a few of the costumes looked more like dressing gowns. 

Also one of the actors, not named here, had the very annoying habit of mouthing the words of the character he was standing opposite. His unscripted ventriloquy went on for a whole scene.

Even so Jane Austen buffs and lovers of good theatre have plenty to feast on in this production.

David Spicer*

Photographer: Craig O'Regan.

*David Spicer represents the Jane Austen adaptations of Pamela Whalan.