Jane Austin's 'Persuasion' at Royal Exchange

JEFF JAMES DIRECTS A LOVE STORY FOR GROWN-UPS

The Royal Exchange Theatre presents the World Premiere of

PERSUASION

By Jane Austen
Adapted by Jeff James with James Yeatman

Directed by Jeff James

25 May- 24 June
Press Night: Thursday 1 June, 7.30pm - The Theatre

Jeff James, one of the UK’s most original young theatre makers, adapts and directs a bold retelling of Jane Austen’s final masterpiece PERSUASION at the Royal Exchange Theatre. James creates an emotionally powerful love story for grown-ups for the Exchange’s intimate in-the-round stage, revealing how startlingly relevant Austen’s story remains today. Designed by Alex Lowde this contemporary production of Austen’s beautifully crafted novel discards the bonnets and trappings of formal life for a startlingly modern vision of Austen. Developed in collaboration with dramaturg James Yeatman and with sound design from the award-winning Ben and Max Ringham, PERSUASION runs from 25 May to the 24 June.

When Captain Wentworth proposed to Anne eight years ago, he had only love and ambition to offer. Talked out of accepting his proposal by her family, Anne’s never quite got over her first love. But now Wentworth is back. Rich, successful and single, the handsome Captain has been transformed into a serious catch. When circumstances bring the two face to face again, Anne Elliot is forced to confront the past. As old wounds reopen, will Wentworth’s resentment keep him away, and will Anne finally decide what she really wants?

Director Jeff James has worked regularly with the Young Vic, most recently on his production of LA MUSICA, and extensively as Associate Director with international and multi award-winning director Ivo van Hove. His directing credits also include STINK FOOT (The Yard), and ONE FOR THE ROAD & VICTORIA STATION (Young Vic and the Print Room). He is Associate Director on Ivo van Hove's English language productions, including A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE (London, Paris, Broadway & Los Angeles), OBSESSION (Barbican, Amsterdam and international tour), HEDDA GABLER (National Theatre), LAZARUS by David Bowie and Enda Walsh (New York & London), and THE CRUCIBLE (Broadway).

Designer Alex Lowde has worked extensively in Scotland for Scottish Opera, Dundee Rep, The Lyceum, The Citizens and The Traverse. Receiving the Critics Award for Theatre Design in Scotland in 2009 and 2010 with a nomination in the Best Design Category at the 2010 TMA Awards. Other design credits include the National Theatre, Young Vic, Lyric Hammersmith, Opera North, The Royal Court, Almeida, West Yorkshire Playhouse and Sheffield Theatres.

Lara Rossi takes on the role of Austen’s heroine Anne alongside Samuel Edward-Cook as Captain Wentworth. The cast is completed by Geraldine Alexander, Antony Bunsee, Helen Cripps, Cassie Layton, Caroline Moroney, Dorian Simpson and Arthur Wilson.

Music and sound designers Ben and Max Ringham have produced scores and sound designs for more than 40 major productions and have worked extensively in the West End, at the National Theatre and the RSC. The creative team also includes Lighting Designer Lucy Carter and movement from Morgann Runacre-Temple.

For further information, images or interviews please contact Paula Rabbitt, Communications Manager 0161 615 6783 / paula.rabbitt@royalexchange.co.uk