After the death of their father Elinor and Marianne with their mother and younger sister, struggle financially after the family home and fortune is bequeathed to his oafish son by an earlier marriage. While sorting out the family's affairs, the shy, self-sacrificing Elinor secretly falls for her stepbrother-in-law, Edward Ferrars, a sensitive, well-educated bachelor who cannot court her because of his foolhardy youthful engagement to the greedy Lucy Steele . The grateful Dashwoods are offered a modest country home by family friends, which they accept. Once relocated, Elinor's brash, spirited sister Marianne falls for a dashing local, John Willoughby, a womanizer who nevertheless seems to share her affections. A prominent neighbor, Colonel Brandon, also falls in love with Marianne, but she is oblivious to the older man's affections. Eventually, Willoughby fails Marianne, breaking her heart, until she realizes Brandon's feelings. When Edward's family disowns him, Lucy marries his brother instead, leaving him free to pursue an exultant Elinor.
In a fun and exciting twist, Heather will be alternating the roles of Elinor and Marianne with Alisha Ehrlich. A la "Little Foxes" on broadway, on the nights that she plays Marianne, Heather will be playing Elinor and visa versa.
"Sense and Sensibility" opens June 2nd and runs Thursday to Sunday Through June 23rd. All evening performances begin at 8pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm.
“Ms. Hamil’s adaptation of this beloved story has been one I’ve been griping about for half a year now, and I am pleased to report that under the sturdy, literarily-astute direction of Ms. Evans, Town Hall is housing a superb production of Sense and Sensibility. Go see this show!”
“Even at three hours, I never felt a letdown in my attention. If you are looking for a wonderful night of laughter and fun and even perhaps a bit of tenderness for the lovers, this is the play for you.
In a uncommon move, the roles of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood alternate in successive weeks. The actors are both so excellent, I will return to see them swap roles...Given their wonderful talent and acting range, both will be a treat.”
“Town Hall Theatre in Lafayette is presenting a delightful version of Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility.” Written by Kate Hamill and based on Austen’s novel, the show has a bounty of clever dialogue delivered in rapid-fire succession by the talented cast.”
“After viewing a run through of the play, even without costumes, this reporter can testify that those early ticket holders will not be disappointed: THT’s “Sense & Sensibility” will take audience members to the Regency era in a whirling dance full of life, humor, energy and passion.”
Production photos by Jay Yamada