Unashamedly modern and lively version of Emma still explores ‘classic’ themes

An exciting adaptation of the Jane Austin novel Emma is being performed at the Archway Theatre in Horley.
Emma at The Archway TheatreEmma at The Archway Theatre
Emma at The Archway Theatre

The play has been adapted for the stage by Martin Millar and Doon Mackichan and the director for the Archway is Gary Andrews.

The show runs from Tuesday, June 3, to Saturday, June 7, and Tuesday, June 10, to Saturday, June 14.

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This production is a bold, witty and fresh adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, which, while thoroughly modern, retains the spirit and much of the language of the original.

It’s night and an exhausted Jane Austen sleeps over the recently completed manuscript of her novel Emma.

Her four nieces steal in and decide to act out the text and, after her initial anger on being wakened, Jane herself takes the role of Mr Knightley.

The excitable teenage girls often try to take the story into their own realms of fantasy but are always brought back to the real text by Jane.

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Unlike most stage adaptations of classic novels, Martin Millar and Doon MacKichan’s Emma is unashamedly modern and lively.

Jane Austen purists may not approve but despite the irreverent treatment the story is clear and provides a lot to enjoy and think about.

The Archway production explores many ‘classic’ themes while embracing the charm and beauty of the original work.

This version of Emma was first presented at The Guilded Balloon Theatre for the 1998 Edinburgh Festival and subsequently toured in 1999.

Tickets cost £10 for non-members and £8.50 for members.

To book tickets log on to www.archwaytheatre.co.uk or call 0333 666 3366 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm and Saturday, 9am to 5pm).

Phone bookings incur a booking fee of £1.50.

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