Theatre Review – Jane Austen’s Emma Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

 

The Lyceum Theatre is the ideal setting for a Jane Austen play and is currently hosting the latest adaptation of the 1816 novel, Emma. It is set in the fictional town of Highbury, with the eponymous (anti) heroine a mischievous matchmaker from a well- to-do background. It is a favourite amongst Austen’s fanbase and regarded as one of her most light-hearted and fun novels.

Cecil Calf’s stage setting and props were basic throughout the evening, with the simplicity adding to the production. The costumes were beautifully detailed and exactly how you would picture them in your mind when reading a Jane Austen novel. 

The clever use of music, movement and lighting enabled the frequent set changes to transition gracefully between scenes. As the show progresses, the changes become more intricate, often benefitting from the smart use of silhouettes. Ben Ormerod (Lighting) and Natasha Harrison (Movement) are to be commended for this alongside John Leonard (Sound and Matthew Scott (Composer). 

Ryan Craig was responsible for the stage adaptation. The script worked well with the updated dialogue, remaining true to the original novel. It is a testament to the strength of Austen’s original text that it is still able to induce laughter from the modern-day audience throughout the show’s duration of over 2 1/2 hours (including interval).

The casting was excellent, with each actor playing their part effortlessly. Special mentions should be given to William Chubb for his portrayal of the sensitively hilarious Mr Woodhouse, Emma’s long-suffering father. India Shaw-Smith made light work of the leading role as the well-intentioned but ultimately self-centric meddler. I also enjoyed Daniel Rainford’s performance as farmer Robert Martin, who, despite his lowly standing, was, for the first half of the show, the only person with any moral compass.

Jane Austen’s Emma has seen many adaptations over the years on stage, TV and the silver screen. These range from elaborate period dramas to modern-day slants on the original story and timeline. This Theatre Royal Bath production is one for the traditionalist, many of whom will have no doubt seen the previous adaptations.  

This play stays true to its origins with simple staging and elegant costumes, relying mainly on the acting and dialogue, both of which are from the top drawer. It is a show that will quench the thirst of the already converted, whilst offering a gateway into the charming world of Jane Austen to the next generation.

Production run (The Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield): Tuesday 07 October – Saturday 11 October 2025

https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/jane-austen-emma/dates

Reviewer - Matthew Burgin

On -  07 October, 7.30 pm