Auckland Theatre Troupe Celebrates Jane Austen’s Legacy with Improv

As the world prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, a talented theatre troupe from Auckland is set to honour the renowned novelist with a unique improvisational show. The production, titled Austen Found: The Undiscovered Musicals of Jane Austen, will take to the stage in various locations including Howick and Pukekohe on December 13 and 14.

According to Penny Ashton, a long-time performer and comedian involved in the project, the show is part of a series of events dedicated to Austen’s legacy. “On December 16, the world goes bonnet bonkers for Jane Austen with events happening all over,” she said, reflecting the excitement surrounding the anniversary. Ashton, who has been creating Austen-themed performances for 17 years, expressed her enthusiasm for this latest venture.

Ashton shares a personal connection to Austen’s history, being directly related to Thomas Langlois Lefroy, who was known to have flirted with the author when they were both young. This familial link adds a layer of personal significance to her involvement in the show. “The fact I’m related to a man who used to flirt with Jane Austen is incredible,” she stated, highlighting her passion for bringing Austen’s works to life.

Improvised Musical Experience

The cast also includes Lori Dungey and musical director Greg Ward, who will collaborate to create an entirely improvised musical experience inspired by Austen’s novels. “We’ll swoon, laugh and romp through an entirely improvised Austenian musical,” Ashton explained. The performances promise to feature charming suitors, meddlesome mothers, and well-educated heroines, all presented in a lively mix of song, dance, and comedy.

The shows will take place at the Harlequin Musical Theatre in Howick on December 14 and at the Harrington Theatre in Pukekohe on December 13. Ashton invites the community to participate by contributing local references for the improvisation, ensuring that each performance is fresh and engaging. “Local icons get a mention in our show so come and shout out some local references for us to play with,” she encouraged.

Ashton emphasised the timeless relevance of Austen’s themes, noting that the search for love and financial security resonates with modern audiences. “Even 250 years since her birth, Jane Austen is still so relevant,” she remarked, drawing parallels between contemporary issues such as housing insecurity and gender disparities and those faced in Austen’s time.

A Celebration of Joy and Connection

The production aims to provide a joyful escape amid the challenges of the modern world. Ashton describes her troupe as “joy mongers,” committed to spreading happiness through laughter. “We want love, but we want enough money for bonnets, too,” she said, alluding to Austen’s exploration of social themes.

Ashton’s impressive track record of Austen-themed works includes productions such as Promise and Promiscuity and Olive Copperbottom. With a focus on improvisation, Austen Found seeks to create a lively atmosphere that resonates with audiences of all ages.

For those interested in attending, tickets for the performances can be purchased through the iTicket website. This celebration of Jane Austen not only honours her literary contributions but also fosters a sense of community through the shared enjoyment of theatre.