Only Four More Performances of 'Sense and Sensibility' Remain

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 7, 2016) — An ensemble cast brings to life Jane Austen's beloved novel "Sense and Sensibility" in a lively, fresh from off-Broadway, critically-acclaimed adaptation by Kate Hamill presented by University of Kentucky Department of Theatre and Dance. Get tickets now for one of the four remaining performances of "Sense and Sensibility" Dec. 8-11, at the Guignol Theatre.

Jane Austen's 19th century tale of reputation, rumors and romance comes to life in this adaptation of "Sense and Sensibility." Following the untimely death of their father, the Dashwood sisters must choose between following their head and following their heart as the circumstances of their lives constantly change.

Actors play multiple roles, bringing to life the many vivid characters of Austen's world, and transporting the audience from English country estates to London society balls. As Elinor Dashwood learns that the man she hopes to marry has a secret that may prevent them from ever being together, dashing John Willoughby competes with the honorable Colonel Brandon for Marianne's affections. Will reason and discretion win the day, or do affairs of the heart require passion and daring? 

Leading the cast are theatre seniors Myranda Thomas and Casey Shuler portraying the sisters at the heart of the story, Elinor and Marianne. Rounding out the UK cast is: Navji Dixon as Mrs. Jennings and Gossip; Treyton Blackburn as Sir John Middleton, Servant, Doctor and Gossip; Brooke Hasl as Mrs. Dashwood, Anne Steele and Gossip; Hannah Nall as Lady Middleton, Lucy Steele and Gossip; Cassady Gorrell as Fanny Dashwood and Gossip; Curtis Lipsey III as John Dashwood, John Willoughby and Gossip; James Wright Williams as Edward Ferrars, Robert Ferrars and Gossip; Emilia Bustle as Margaret Dashwood, Mrs. Ferrars and Gossip; and Colson Rich as Colonel Brandon, Thomas and Gossip.

"It's been a true delight to bring this story to life with such a wonderful cast and crew," said Christina Ritter, lecturer and director of the UK Theatre production. "Kate Hamill's new adaptation of 'Sense and Sensibility' is charming and highly theatrical, and it has allowed us to find a very playful spirit for the production."

But don't worry Austen lovers, the message of the author still rings true. "We've been careful not to lose sight of the heart of story — Austen's novel is such a smart and recognizable look at love and the pressures of society. We're bringing all of that to life and having lots of fun along the way," Ritter said. 

"Sense and Sensibility" will grace the Guignol stage 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 8-10, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11. Tickets for the production are $15 for general admission and $10 for UK students with a valid ID through the Singletary Center box office. To purchase tickets, contact the box office at 859-257-4929, visit online at www.scfatickets.com or purchase in person during operating hours.

In conjunction with the last performance of "Sense and Sensibility," UK Theatre will host a "Conversation with the Artists" directly after the show Sunday, Dec. 11.

The UK Department of Theatre and Dance at UK College of Fine Arts has played an active role in the performance scene in Central Kentucky for more than 100 years. Students in the program get hands-on training and one-on-one mentorship from the renowned professional theatre faculty. The liberal arts focus of their bachelor's degree program is coupled with ongoing career counseling to ensure a successful transition from campus to professional life.