News: Alexandra Palace announces co-production of Jane Austen’s Persuasion for 2022

Alexandra Palace and Rose Theatre Production, in association with Oxford Playhouse, are set to present an adaptation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion.

Adapted by Jeff James with James Yeatman, and directed by Jeff James, the production marks the north London venue’s first co-production in a new partnership with Rose Theatre.

Based on the writer’s classic romance, Persuasion arrives at Alexandra Palace in April 2022. This production was first seen at the Royal Exchange Theatre in 2017 and brings all the sharp observation and quick wit of Austen’s novel to the stage – without a bonnet in sight.

When Captain Wentworth proposed to Anne Elliot eight years ago, he was penniless and had only love and ambition to offer. Persuaded out of accepting his proposal by her family, Anne never quite got over her first love.

But now Wentworth is back. Rich, successful and single, the handsome Captain has been transformed into a serious catch. When circumstances bring the two face to face again, Anne is forced to confront the past.

As old wounds reopen, will Wentworth forgive Anne for rejecting him, and will Anne finally learn to trust her desires?

Austen’s romantic comedy is riotously reinvented for the twenty-first century with an explosive foam party and a soundtrack of Frank Ocean, Dua Lipa and Cardi B.

Creative team include designer Alex Lowde, lighting designer Lucy Carter and music and sound designers Ben and Max Ringham, with movement by Morgann Runacre-Temple and assistant direction from Layla Madanat.

The production arrives at Ally Pally Theatre on 7 April for a limited run, following an opening at Rose Theatre, Kingston in February.

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