Jane Austen's last novel, Persuasion, takes to the stage in an epic performance by the Mount Isa Theatrical Society commencing on Friday 25 May.
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The classic novel, set in 1806 follows the story of the Elliott’s.
Anne Elliott was betrothed to a young Navy man, Captain Wentworth, a man whose proposal she was persuaded to refuse years before.
The MITS adaption of the play begins eight years later when the Elliot family are on the verge of financial ruin and Wentworth, who was a poor sailor with no social standing, has returned, a rich and eligible officer.
Public Relations Officer Jenelle Robartson said they were wanting to do something a bit more classical or a period piece.
“Renee Spena suggested Persuasion and she is a massive Jane Austen fan,” Ms Robartson said.
“She is also directing for the first time.
“It’s her favourite Jane Austen novel and its perfect to have a director who is already invested in the subject matter,” she said.
Ms Spena is relatively new to MITS and has taken on a big role by putting on this production.
“It’s been a massive learning experience for me,” Ms Spena said.
“It’s been fun and it's given me a whole new appreciation to what goes into making an outstanding show.”
“All in all, everyone has come up with a wonderful show and it’s amazing to see it from a director’s point of view,” she said.
During a committee meeting last year the script was among several that landed on the table.
All in all, everyone has come up with a wonderful show and it’s amazing to see it from a director’s point of view.
- Director Renee Spena
“I had been considering directing and when I saw the script – I took it as a sign and decided to do it.”
The cast of 16 people consists of some first timers to the stage and some familiar faces.
“We’re most famous for doing comedies but this is a little bit more of a drama, although, I must say this does have natural humour in it – it's certainly not a stoic story,” Ms Robartson said.
“It’s a lively and beautiful tale with some pretty cute characters which will give the audience a giggle for sure.
“I guarantee the audience will have a good night and some laughs,” she said.
The show runs from Friday 25 May through to Saturday June 16 on every Friday and Saturday night.
Tickets are on sale now at Impulse Boutique on West Street for $40 which includes a two-course meal.
