The story of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood was first published in 1811 as the work of ‘an anonymous author’. The first print run produced 750 – 1000 copies and completely sold out within two years.
Jane Austen made £140 from the sale of the first edition, equivalent to approximately £10,000 today, and she became an increasingly sought after author with many requests for further works by the popular ‘author of Sense and Sensibility’ fuelling demand for her future novels. The compelling contrast of the sensible and reserved Elinor with the flighty and impulsive Marianne still resonates today. Austen’s sharp and merciless wit paints a whole cast of flawed and yet compelling characters.
To explore this from a 21st century perspective has required many rehearsal hours of unpicking and exploring the rich language of the Regency period, adopting the manners of the era and discovering the characters who inhabit this world. Many of the challenges faced by the protagonists are replicated in different ways today, and the same flawed yet human stories are still recognisable. It has been such fun to fill the production with moments of playful energy that might bring a smile to the audience. And it has also been a great pleasure to see the collaboration, generosity and dedication of this outstanding cast of actors.
Director’s Note
Working on Sense and Sensibility as a stage manager was an amazing experience. The Drama Department is definitely one of the places I would go just for the atmosphere, and working on a set that was so bright, with a cast that was so tight-knit made the experience all the more enjoyable. A highlight for me was definitely the technical beauty of the set, especially the garden swing, which moved up and down throughout the show and amplified the gorgeous scenes it was used in.
I really enjoy being involved in Drama productions. The planning and preparation involved in making shows come to life through set and props is a great practice of independent planning skills, organization, and quick thinking when things go wrong, whilst also being a way of exploring your creativity. For anyone who is considering doing stage management in the future, I would definitely encourage you to just go for it, even if you’ve never been involved in Drama productions before. It’s a great way to get outside your comfort zone but still be in a welcoming and safe environment to develop your skills and interests.
Mishel (L6)
Being a cast member in Sense and Sensibility was an experience I don’t think I can ever forget. Everyone in the cast was so talented and so supportive of each other, and together, alongside our amazing director and tech crew, we put on three incredible nights with such an engaged and wonderful audience. To me, the best part was the break from academic life into an atmosphere of creativity and escape. The entire cast worked so hard every week during rehearsals, and were so dedicated (especially during exams!), but it never felt overwhelming, as we were always able to support each other, recognise each other’s efforts and talent, and create tons of inside jokes that kept us thoroughly entertained. The Regency-era dances were by far an unexpected highlight for me. I must admit, I was slightly sceptical of our Cheap Thrills mix of Regency and modern dance to begin with, but I can safely say it became one of the best moments. The smiles and giggles from the audience as the music began made for an even better performance.
Being part of Sense and Sensibility definitely assured me of my love for Drama. Although I haven’t chosen it as an A Level, being on stage and being able to deliver a story to an audience is something I am truly passionate about, and I know that I will take every opportunity at university to take part in theatre. I have learnt to project my voice much further than I could before, which is such a key skill for not only Drama but for any presentation I may do in the future. To anyone considering taking part in the Senior production next year, regardless of whether you do GCSE/A Level Drama or not, just go for it! I could not tell you a single thing any of us regrets about being in Sense and Sensibility, and the end result is truly something to be proud of. I have made very close friends from this production, and I highly encourage anyone even considering taking part to do so!
Miriam (U6)
Watching Sense and Sensibility was an absolute delight. I particularly enjoyed how the actors brought the characters to life. I found that I resonated with Elinor’s reserved nature and Marianne’s passionate heart. Watching the silhouette of the story whilst it was narrated was a clever touch that brought the stories to life. An inspiring aspect was the emotional depth the actors portrayed, leaving me in awe of the talent. The use of the swing brought the set to life, with its twisted vines up the ropes, and it was used in ways that gave the actors a chance to show their character’s personalities. Definitely one of the best SHSK performances I’ve seen!
Beth (Y9)
