Sense & Sensibility
"An adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel follows the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters – sensible Elinor and hypersensitive Marianne – after their father’s sudden death leaves them financially destitute and socially vulnerable. Set in gossipy late 18th-century England with a fresh female voice, the play is full of humor, emotional depth and bold theatricality. Sense and Sensibility examines our reactions, both reasonable and ridiculous, to societal pressures. When reputation is everything, how do you follow your heart?" - Concord Theatricals
Written by: Kate Hamill
Directed by: Kat Middeldorp
Choreographed by: Shari Setchell
Stage Managed by: Aurelia Graves
Elements
- Lighting was used to display different times of day
- 2-minute fight scene
- Things lowered down by the banisters
Changes
We had a new director at the high school. It was a fun challenge to work with someone who had a totally different approach to the creative process. In working with her, I gained knowledge from someone who studied classical theater and opera. We brought the dramatic colors into the Gossips. We, as a cast, watched the 1995 version of the movie.
Trust and Teaching
Sense & Sensibility was a show that was different for many reasons, but the one that I was excited for was teaching someone else how to stage manage. This was fun to run through the process and pass on my knowledge. Over the rehearsal process, we both learned things. This was a show that fought, and we worked with Sam Mastin from the Society of American Fight Directors to build out a 3-minute fight. It was fun to learn about another department of theater: stage combat. Over time, while building the fight, I was able to give feedback and I was trusted because I had worked with him before.
