Syracuse Sun

Syracuse Stage is set to present Kate Hamill's adaptation of Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility." Directed by Jason O'Connell, the production will be staged from April 23 to May 11 at the Archbold Theatre.

Artistic Director Robert Hupp shared his enthusiasm: "Kate Hamill’s first play, her adaptation of Jane Austin’s ‘Sense and Sensibility,’ has been at the top of our season lists ever since we produced her version of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ a few years ago ... its over-the-top theatricality and humor, combined with its honest and heartfelt compassion and warmth, make it just the kind of theatrical experience we all need right now."

Set in 18th-century England, the story follows the Dashwood sisters as they navigate the challenges that arise after their father's death.

Hamill, recognized by American Theatre Magazine as the Most-Produced Playwright of the 2024-25 Season, expressed her excitement: "’Sense and Sensibility’ was my first play ... it’s such a treat to bring his version to these audiences."

O'Connell commented, "I am always thrilled to return to Syracuse Stage, an artistic home away from home if ever I’ve known one. ... This production is something of a love letter to the beginnings of our journey together, full of love and laughter—and a touch of madness!"

The cast includes Jamie Ann Romero as Elinor and Olivia AbiAssi as Marianne. Other cast members are Gina Daniels, Jeff Gonzalez, Angie Janas, James Ragen, Blake Segal, alongside new faces Amelia Gallagher, Salma Mahmoud, Keshav Moodliar, Chris Thorn, and Maggie Weller.

The creative team involves Steph Paul in choreography, Brittany Vasta in set design, Raven Ong in costumes, Dawn Chiang in lighting, Jacqueline R. Herter in sound, Holly Thuma in dialect coaching, and Yvonne Perry in intimacy coordination.

Tickets start at $30, with discounts for students and groups. Various performance options, such as Pay-What-You-Will nights and shows with interpretation and descriptions for accessibility, are available.

The production is backed by sponsors like the Slutzker Family Foundation, the Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation, and Advance Media New York. The community partner is Friends of the Central Library (FOCL).

Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the Syracuse Stage Box Office.