Sense and Sensibility, directed by Annmarie Benedict, is Theatre Ink’s depiction of the timeless classic by Jane Austen. It is set to run Oct. 30–Nov. 1 in the Lasker Auditorium.
The play follows the Willoughby family, portraying the lives of two sisters, Eleanor and Marianne. The play is set in Britain during the 1790s, where aristocracy taints society and luxury is esteemed. When the girls lose their father, they also lose a lot of money, challenging their high-class society status, and making them face new financial and societal struggles.
“The whole thing is kind of their hijinks and their journeys of finding love and finding financial stability,” said senior Eve Stern, a cast member.
According to Benedict, who is new to the Theatre Ink community and North, a welcoming and talented community of actors and behind-the-scenes people is already forming, early into the rehearsal process.
Benedict, who is new to the Theatre Ink community and North, said, “It’s super exciting to be directing here at North. Everybody’s already such a community and that’s really welcoming.” She added, “Everyone already comes into Sense and Sensibility with incredible knowledge, talent, and their ability to fulfill their role, which really speaks to the larger community.”
The Sense and Sensibility crew continues growing closer as the performance comes closer, allowing them to deliver a performance that truly resonates with the audience.
Although the story was written many years ago, its themes of power, gender roles, and family remain relevant to modern-day society.
Adam Brown, the head of the Theatre Department, said, “I think people will see it and see it’s a comedy, but also see its poignancy and relevance to today.”