Review: EMMA at Dacha Theatre

Taking on a classic is no easy feat, especially one that has been famously adapted and loved throughout history, such as Jane Austen’s beloved Emma. Seattle’s Dacha Theatre has proved it’s up for the task with its latest immersive on-stage adaptation of the novel. Freshly directed by Sophia Franzella and featuring a tightly knit cast, Emma is now showing at 12th Ave Arts. 

The play follows Emma Woodhouse, a young and wealthy woman who is entirely convinced that she knows what is best for everyone, especially when it comes to love. As she takes on the role of matchmaker for those around her, she creates more drama than romance, completely overlooking the signs of her own love life blossoming. Filled with sharp humor, unexpected twists, and a touch of self-discovery, Emma is the ultimate romantic comedy of the Regency era, where pride, flirting, and a tasteful touch of scandal add to the excitement.

Dacha’s production of Emma is unlike the classic telling, with the option to observe from the sideline seating, and the choice to be a part of the story with the onstage immersive seating. The patrons who grab a lucky seat on stage are often interacted with and handed props. The onstage seating, coupled with the onstage and versatile band, makes for a lively and active stage at all times. 

Scenic Designer Devin Petersen masterfully crafted the space to give the impression we were attending a not-so-regency era ball, with streamers and tiny crystal disco balls hanging from the ceiling, and a gorgeous backdrop behind the band. This modern take sets the perfect tone for updated storytelling. 

Utilizing this perfect playground is Rachel Guyer-Mafune (Emma), Emily Huntingford (Harriet), MJ Jurgensen (Knightley), Pearl Mei Lam (Jane), James Schilling (Frank Churchilll/Mr. Elton), Riley Gene (Miss Bates/Robert Martin), Kayla Walker (Mrs. Weston), and Van Lang Pham (Mr. Woodhouse/Mr. Weston).

We’re also lucky enough to be serenaded by Claire Idstrom, who doubles as the band leader and Mrs. Elton, alongside fellow musicians Kyle Levien and Diego Chavez. The band provides the beautiful tunes to carry us through the story and adds a desirable layer of tension and, at times, relief. 

The show's standouts are Guyer-Mafune and Huntingford as best friends Emma and Harriet. The pair’s dynamic is light, yet incredibly full of depth and understanding of these two complex women. 

Guyer-Mafune captures Emma’s immense vulnerability masked by her strength and vast confidence in her skills and abilities. There are many moments throughout the show where it is clear that she is taking on a world of depth and understanding of the societal pressure and expectations that would have been plaguing a woman of this time. Many show elements were updated to fit a modern audience, and Emma’s costuming was perhaps the most striking. With wrists lined with friendship bracelets, rainbow and fruit clips dazzling in her hair, and a candy choker necklace, Emma presents as extremely young and overly confident at first glance. Guyer-Mafune’s portrayal turns these expectations on their head and proves everyone wrong, presenting more maturity with each scene. Watching this arc develop throughout the show was truly a pleasure. 

Huntingford's portrayal of the incredibly sweet Harriet is refreshingly unique. With each failed matchmaking attempt, we see Harriet persevering despite her self-doubt and deep worries. The timeless desire to be wanted resonates throughout the narrative, and Huntingford's authentic depiction of Harriet significantly enhances this theme. Harriet's openness about her desires and yearnings stands in stark contrast to Emma's preoccupation with everyone except herself, and this dynamic is perfectly illustrated by the two actors.

Costume Designer Ro Miller dressed each character perfectly, from Emma’s colorful clips, to Mrs. Weston’s gorgeous blue dress, the looks were the perfect modern twist on the Regency era. Dressing the characters in elaborate outfits and pairs of high-top platform Converse was genius. 

Emma at Dacha Theatre is filled with outstanding performances, amazing ensemble work, and a versatile band that will keep you guessing. With only a few more performances left, it’s time to decide if you’d like a sideline or immersive seat.