Theatrical nuance comes to the forefront in TheatreWorks Silicon Valley's production of 'Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley,' a Jane Austen-inspired play that masterfully weaves together period accuracy, wit, and heart.
Regency etiquette consultant Jennifer Le Blanc's role is crucial in bringing authenticity to the production. As an actress with extensive experience in classical theatre and Shakespearean plays, Le Blanc brings her expertise in understanding the intricacies of Regency-era behavior, including curtsies, snubs, and subtle mannerisms that convey emotions and social status.
In a play where timeliness is key, artistic director Giovanna Sardelli draws on Austen's timeless stories to captivate audiences. "Austen has an uncanny ability to capture the longing in everybody’s spirit—of belonging, being seen, finding love, finding relevance—in such a witty, warm, brave, bold way," Sardelli observes.
Costuming designer Cathleen Edwards is equally meticulous in her craft, utilizing color and fabric choices that subtly reveal character motivations and foreshadow plot twists. "Color has an emotional component," Edwards notes, adding nuance to the actors' performances and drawing audiences deeper into the world of Pemberley.
As the production unfolds, Sardelli has noticed that Peninsula audiences have developed a strong affinity for Austen's stories, particularly during the holiday season. With its diverse cast and thought-provoking themes, 'Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley' offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
With its thoughtful attention to period detail, engaging performances, and Austen's masterful storytelling, this production is a testament to the enduring power of theatre to transport us to another time and place.
Regency etiquette consultant Jennifer Le Blanc's role is crucial in bringing authenticity to the production. As an actress with extensive experience in classical theatre and Shakespearean plays, Le Blanc brings her expertise in understanding the intricacies of Regency-era behavior, including curtsies, snubs, and subtle mannerisms that convey emotions and social status.
In a play where timeliness is key, artistic director Giovanna Sardelli draws on Austen's timeless stories to captivate audiences. "Austen has an uncanny ability to capture the longing in everybody’s spirit—of belonging, being seen, finding love, finding relevance—in such a witty, warm, brave, bold way," Sardelli observes.
Costuming designer Cathleen Edwards is equally meticulous in her craft, utilizing color and fabric choices that subtly reveal character motivations and foreshadow plot twists. "Color has an emotional component," Edwards notes, adding nuance to the actors' performances and drawing audiences deeper into the world of Pemberley.
As the production unfolds, Sardelli has noticed that Peninsula audiences have developed a strong affinity for Austen's stories, particularly during the holiday season. With its diverse cast and thought-provoking themes, 'Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley' offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
With its thoughtful attention to period detail, engaging performances, and Austen's masterful storytelling, this production is a testament to the enduring power of theatre to transport us to another time and place.