The work of Jane Austen has persevered for more than 200 years because of its continued relevance.
Audiences and readers are struck by the insights of the thoughtful and self-reflective characters, many of whom are struggling with the same internal conflicts people face today.
What’s my place in the world? What’s my responsibility to my family? Do they like me? Do I actually like them?
The drama of Jane Austen arrives on the Wilsonville High School stage for the school’s spring play, “Sense and Sensibility,” adapted by Kate Hamill for the stage. The adaptation works to enliven and heighten the modern connections with Austen’s original novel.
“I think when we first announced the shows last year, (the students) were like, ‘OK, we're doing Shakespeare and Jane Austen, back to back, those are basically the same,’ from their point of view. Then when we got into rehearsing, I think they responded really well. What's fun about this adaptation is it gives you sort of permission to play with it,” said director Jason Katz.
Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility” tells the story of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who fall on hard times after the death of their father. Elinor and Marianne, along with their younger sister and mother, are left to navigate the petty whims of their half-brother John’s wife Fanny, and the romance and heartbreak of forging on after a sudden change.
“I have never done a show at Wilsonville High School; this is my first one. I’m a senior and it’s spring; it’s the first time I’ve had the time. When I heard it was ‘Sense and Sensibility,’ I really wanted to try out,” said Katherine Gore, who plays Elinor. “I learned all I could about this book and Jane Austen. It’s been a wonderful experience going through her work and how you can show feeling something but not wanting to let it show.”
The students agreed that Austen’s comedy and drama often come from what is not said, just as much as what is.
“I think if you watch the show you will be able to see how many layers are built on the show, how many different things are at play and just how fun it is. You can get a sense of community just by watching it,” said Axel Lauthner, a WHS freshman who plays Edward in the show. “It’s made in a way that keeps the original points of it, but modern audiences also get a sense of satisfaction from watching it — it can match newer styles of media like a sitcom.”
“Sense and Sensibility” asks the audience to ponder a classic rom-com question: “Will they or won’t they?”
The play opens at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 9 in the Wilsonville High School Performing Arts Center. Performances continue at 7 p.m. on May 10, 11, 16 and 17 and at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. Tickets cost $10 for students and seniors and $12 for everyone else.
“I started out as a teacher’s aide in the drama class. I was just observing what they were doing and I was like, ‘Whoa, this is really for me.’ So I joined the class and really enjoyed it,” said Michelle Bhilare, who plays Marianne. “For anyone who’s scared of starting theater, theater is a very non-judgmental, non-toxic environment. Honestly, every friend I’ve made in high school has been through theater — you gain a community of people you can trust.”
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