About the Show

A contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma, featuring a sharp new take on Austen’s classic heroine.

Emma Woodhouse has just returned from Oxford University to spend the summer in her hometown, confident as ever in her ability to manage the lives of those around her. Convinced she knows what’s best for everyone, Emma sets her sights on improving her best friend Harriet’s love life. Meanwhile, her father is acting suspiciously, and George Knightley—never shy about critiquing Emma’s schemes—seems more present than ever. As plans unravel and motivations are questioned, Emma finds herself confronting more than just other people’s problems.

This contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma relocates the story to modern-day Britain, reimagining its protagonist as a sharp, self-assured graduate navigating friendship, family, and romantic entanglements with updated urgency. The production offers a new lens on Austen’s familiar characters and relationships while staying grounded in the social dynamics that have made the original endure.

Critic Reviews (8)

"Powered by a brilliant stage debut from Amelia Kenworthy, playwright Ava Pickett transposes Austen’s novel to modern day Essex, with very funny results"
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"There are some comic zingers and warm moments, Emma and Harriet’s close female friendship is carefully observed, and Kenworthy and Oxenham make spirited professional stage debuts. "
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"The performances – fast, beautifully timed – do the conceit justice. "
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"It might not be your standard period drama, but it’s so joyous that maybe even Austen will be laughing in her grave."
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"It’s a fluid production that unfolds without a hitch on Ceci Calf’s nimble set, with interludes of classical music smoothing over agile scene changes as furnishings are ferried on and off the wooden-floored set. "
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" 'Emma' at the Rose Theatre is a witty, vibrant, and thoroughly enjoyable production that reimagines Austen’s classic with a contemporary twist."
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"This production of 'Emma' is great fun, impeccably acted and offers an exhilarating and clever take on a well-loved story. "
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"...if what you want from your Emma adaptation is a few laughs, a clever and feisty heroine, and a hunky George to swoon over, then this is a perfectly fine play."
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