Jane Austen’s artfully feminist “Emma” is reimagined on stage in a production by Kate Hammill at Actors Theatre of Louisville. Performed by Kentucky Shakespeare, “Emma” is a skillful blend of historical humor, budding romance and societal critiques. The titular character, Emma Woodhouse, played by University of Louisville graduate Brittany “BeeBee” Patillo, is a clever and meddlesome matchmaker. Woodhouse spends her days pairing off her friends and reveling in the romance that ensues . . . or does not.
When she meets socially awkward Harriet Smith, played by University of Florida graduate Sasha Cifuentes, Woodhouse makes it her goal to find her new friend an eligible young bachelor, which proves to be much more difficult than either girl thought. As Woodhouse pressures Smith to fall for the men she selects and Woodhouse suppresses her own feelings for a certain gentleman, drama ensues. The women grapple with societal expectations and their own aspirations, along with introductions to long-winded priest Mr. Elton, played by Zachary Burrell, shallow flirt Frank Churchill, played by Justin Jackson, and the level-headed Mr. Knightley, played by Crystian Wiltshire.
Each actor crafted their roles with the skillful theatrical precision Jane Austen’s story deserves. Jennifer Pennington (Miss Bates and Mrs. Elton), Mollie Murk (Mrs. Weston, Mrs. Elton and Mrs. Bates), Justin Jackson (Frank Churchill, Mr. Woodhouse and Robert Martin), Kate Drury (Jane Fairfax and Servant), Cifuentes (Harriet Smith and Mrs. Bates) and Zachary Burrell (Mr. Elton, Mr. Weston and Robert Martin) all demonstrated significant range with their various parts. Patillo embraced her character, breaking the fourth wall repeatedly with a series of monologues and snarky remarks. She showcased Woodhouse’s character development and many emotions through every action, line and facial expression, creating a likable yet realistically flawed protagonist.
Although the costumes and props were expertly eye-catching and old-fashioned, the content of the story carries over from 19th century England into the world we live in today, raising questions about inequality, matrimony and the place each person holds in society.
Overall, I have no qualms with this production of “Emma.” However, I encourage attendees to avoid sitting close to the stage on the far left, where I initially sat. I had a fantastic view of the stage and an incredibly bright light shining in my peripheral vision. I’m not sure what other seats would also experience this, but I would recommend sitting farther back or towards the center. Otherwise, “Emma” was fantastic!
The Greater Louisville Region’s Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) was present at the performance, in full Regency era garb. They lauded the production as well as other shows Kentucky Shakespeare has put on.
“It [the show] was a fun interpretation of “Emma.” It’s one of my favorite books. I really get the humor behind Emma and her character, and it was really interesting to see someone else’s perspective on that humor. I thought it was a very fun portrayal of her,” JASNA member Carolyn Vetter said.
In the past, Kentucky Shakespeare has put on “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility”. Bonny Wise, founder of the Great Louisville Region’s JASNA, looks forward to seeing what Austen tale Kentucky Shakespeare will bring to the stage next.
For now, theatre-and-Austen-enthusiasts can enjoy “Emma” from Jan. 14-18 at Actors Theatre of Louisville’s Pamela Brown Auditorium at 316 West Main Street. Tickets are $25 with an additional $5 Actors Theatre service charge. At the venue, attendees can purchase Kentucky Shakespeare merchandise, handmade jewelry and refreshments.
