SENSE AND SENSIBILITY Opens 7/21 at Marian Theatre

Sense and Sensibility is the journey of two sisters discovering the balance between rationalism and romanticism while finding their way to personal power and a real understanding of what love truly means. Jane Austen's romantic comedy adapted for the stage by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan (Pride and Prejudice) plays in the Marian Theatre July 21 - 30, then transfers to the Solvang Festival Theater and runs from August 5 - 21.

The novel, Sense and Sensibility, was Jane Austen's first published work (1811). It examines the life and loves of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, the former with a strong character of prudence and rational sense and the latter letting romantic emotions and her sensibilities dictate her desires. Austen didn't intend to show one trait as superior over the other, rather, when applied together how they make for a balanced individual.

When Marianne falls in love with the dashing, though unsuitable, John Willoughby she ignores Elinor's warning that her impulsive behavior will leave her open to gossip. All the while Elinor is trying to conceal her own romantic distress. Through their parallel romantic experience, the sisters learn that sense must mix with sensibility if they are to find personal happiness. The story is the perfect mix of humor, romance, and happy endings.

The creative team includes Director Roger DeLaurier, Scenic Designer Dave Nofsinger, Costume Designer Judith A. Ryerson+, Lighting Designer Tim Thistleton, Sound Designer, Chuck Hatcher+, Dialect Coaches Kitty Balay and Matt Koenig, and Stage Manager Sam Burke.

The cast includes resident artists Peter S. Hadres* as Henry Dashwood and Dr. Harris, Elizabeth Stuart* as Mrs. Dashwood, Matt Koenig as Edward Ferrars, Polly Firestone Walker as Mrs. Ferrars, Kitty Balay* as Mrs. Jennings, and Andrew Philpot* as Colonel Brandon. The Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, are played by Shae Palic and Sierra Wells respectively.