The Little Red Hen Theatre is proud to present Sense & Sensibility, Kate Hamill’s acclaimed adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, on March 14, 15, and 16. This fast-paced, inventive retelling brings a vibrant and modern energy to Austen’s classic tale while staying true to its timeless themes of love, family, and resilience.
In Sense & Sensibility, sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood find themselves navigating the unpredictable tides of fortune, romance, and societal expectations after the untimely death of their father. Forced to leave their family estate, the two sisters must learn to balance sense and sensibility as they encounter love, heartbreak, and unexpected twists of fate. “Even though Austen wrote Sense & Sensibility over 200 years ago our culture is still putting similar themes at the forefront of discussions: social status, economic status (and disparities), marriage, and even the balance of reason versus emotion” said Beau Flemming, who plays Willoughby and John Dashwood in the show. “I challenge each person to think about flexing your empathy muscle and viewing one of these concepts (or one of your own choosing) from a different perspective. To live in this world, we must honor and respect the truth of others, even if we do not understand it.”
Hamill’s adaptation infuses this cherished story with humor, wit, and dynamic theatricality, making it a joy to watch. With energetic performances, clever staging, and a lively script, the production offers audiences an experience filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and unexpected surprises.
“Coming to Sense & Sensibility will be a journey back into the late 18th century and the trials and tribulations of the Dashwood sisters. It will provide a humorous look at our own judgements, assumptions and behaviors in today's relationships as well! Not to mention an evening of fun and entertainment” said cast member Charity Potter, who plays Sir John in the production. Audiences will be swept up in the fast-paced, playful, and emotionally rich storytelling, where quick-witted dialogue and theatrical ingenuity bring Austen’s world vividly to life.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Sense & Sensibility or new to the story, this adaptation offers something for everyone to enjoy. “Jane Austen fans know that "Sense and Sensibility" is a classic tale--one of her most beloved novels--and the playwright has brought it to life and stayed true to the original in this delightful adaptation. If you aren't a Jane Austen fan yet, you just may be after you see this production!” said long time Little Red Hen Theatre actor Sharon Boeckenhauer, who plays Thomas as well as multiple smaller roles in the show.
The production features Victoria Nelson and Meg Schuler as Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, with Sharon Boeckenhauer, Buffany DeBoer, Melissa Derechailo, Sherry Dorman, Lydia Engel, Barb Farup, Beau Fleming, Lydia Fox, Holly Kathol, Mike Mogus, Katelyn Pommer, Charity Potter, Kristalyn Sievers, and Josie Vilkas. The production is directed by T. Adam Goos with assistance from Lexi Kapanka who also serves as choreographer and movement specialist.
A modern staging of Sense & Sensibility allows us to see Austen's sharp insights about women’s lives through a fresh lens. Director T. Adam Goos believes audiences will relate to the struggles the Dashwood sisters face—like balancing emotion with practicality, dealing with society’s expectations, and carving out their own paths. “It’s a great reminder that even though things have changed, many of the challenges women face in finding love, stability, and independence are still very real today. Plus, it highlights just how much strength and complexity there is in these female characters”!
Don’t miss this delightful and thought-provoking production of Sense & Sensibility, made possible with the generous support of the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment, The Dixon County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the 2025 Patrons of The Little Red Hen Theatre! Performances will be held at the Little Red Hen Theatre in Wakefield, Nebraska, on March 14th and 15th at 7:00 p.m. and a matinee on March 16th at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at www.littleredhentheatre.com or by calling (402) 287-2818