By Kate Hamill

Based on the novel by Jane Austen

 

In September 2025, Concept Players brought Jane Austen to the Paget Rooms in Penarth with Kate Hamill’s lively adaptation of Sense and Sensibility. Hamill’s version is witty, playful, and at times deeply moving—a fresh take on the beloved Regency classic.

This was Cat’s first directorial project for Concept Players, and her vision and energy shone through. Her inventive staging and seamless scene transitions gave the production great pace and vitality, making a challenging play flow with ease.

The two Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, were portrayed beautifully by Emma and Harriet respectively. Their performances balanced passion and restraint, driving the story with charm and emotional depth. They were joined by Julie as their spirited younger sister Margaret, delightfully petulant, and by Sheilani Nandy as their steadfast yet sometimes scheming mother, Mrs. Dashwood.

The ensemble cast took on multiple roles with great skill, often switching between members of the lively “Gossip Chorus” and key story characters. Steven Smith, a newcomer to Concept Players but a seasoned performer elsewhere, impressed as both of the Ferrars brothers—capturing one’s bashful sweetness and the other’s buffoonish arrogance. Richard Axtell brought nuance to his contrasting roles as the indecisive John Dashwood and the charming yet deceitful Willoughby. Laurence Clarke gave a measured and dignified performance as Colonel Brandon and was equally hilarious as the venomous Fanny, whose every entrance brought roars of laughter.

Comic relief came from Ellie Hoare and Paul Buckle as Mrs. Jennings and Sir John, whose infectious energy and perfectly timed antics delighted the audience—especially when accompanied by their “pack of dogs.” Iona D’Souza, in her first major role, made a striking impression as the coldly calculating Lucy Steele, delivering each line with cutting precision.

Behind the scenes, the technical team kept things running flawlessly. Laura (sound) and Ffion (lighting) ensured a slick production, while Paul oversaw production duties and, with Laura and Fiona, provided a wonderful array of costumes—many handmade. Jess and Ruairidh managed smooth scene transitions and set changes throughout.

Concept Players’ first venture into the Regency world proved a triumph; full of wit, heart, and theatrical flair. A night of laughter, drama, and genuine emotion. What more could you ask for?