Emma by Jane Austen

Emma is the fourth and last of Austen's novels published during her lifetime  In common with her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England and creates a lively comedy of manners among her characters.

This was a challenging production for a number of reasons: the adaption of the novel for the stage by the Director (as new and different interpretation is always of real interest). The story isn’t one of Austen’s most dramatic and the staging in a listed Tithe Barn limits what can be done, without facilities, staging, electricity and seating area. However, these were challenges which the whole Bradfordians’ Team overcame.

Around half of the Barn itself was used, with a raised stage area towards the middle of the barn and the audience snuggly set on raked seating to one end. The other end of the Barn was used for cast entrances and some pretty impressive lighting effects. On the back of the raised area was a fixed set, comprising two impressive house fronts – one smaller and older for the dwelling of Miss Bates and a larger 3 storey Georgian Town House. The staging was incredibly well co-ordinated with the crew (in costume) and the cast, as they were used in some pretty complex arrangements. Well done to all involved here, as the management of this was exceptional. Sound effects, including musical requirements and interludes were well-cued and controlled.

Costumes, Properties, Hair and Make-Up are not my main are of expertise but to me what was presented all looked very good - seeming to be of the period and generally well-fitting.

Music and Choreography was a real theme and feature of the production. Incidental music suitable to the period was well-used to cover in-between scenes. Good use was also made of the singing abilities of the cast. The rendition of ‘Hark the Herald’ was very good, as well as Jane Fairfax’s solo. The acapella performance of the song at Box Hill was also really nice. The period dance choreography was also a real highlight and I really enjoyed it. The programme notes detailed that most of these were original and/or rediscovered pieces which added in some further intrigue and interest.

The Bradfordians have an enviable reputation for the quality of their acting across their whole cast, and this production was no exception to that. This was a real ensemble piece, though I must mention Astrid Bishop in the title role as Emma Woodhouse. The Director boldly went with a younger performer who brought some real youthful vigour, charm and innocence to her portrayal of Emma. It was a very capable, consistent and impressive performance in what is a large and really difficult role. Very well done!

Overall, this was another successful production for The Bradfordians. A new adaptation of a lesser known Jane Austen story is not a performance to put on without potential risk. However, the abilities of the Director and their own adaptation, an able production team and strong cast were able to make this another very successful production. Pace, even for this type of gentle and period production is one of the few areas to perhaps look at for the future, but overall this was another excellent evening’s entertainment from this very talented group. I look forward to your future productions.

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