Lianne Marie Dobbs as Emma and Timothy Gulan as Mr. Knightley return in this radiant much demanded production of Jane Austen’s charming “Emma”. It was so highly lauded in TheatreWorks 2007 production season that it has returned in all of Robert Kelly’s directional glory as good as new if not better.
Director Robert Kelly has given us a gift by collaborating with writer, composer, lyricist Paul Gordon and creating a story with lovely words and music. Austen would be pleased. Kelly’s direction is delicate and as usual flawless; he is a master of his craft. Jane Austen’s “Emma” was her fourth novel, published in three parts a year before she died at the early age of 41.
Well educated, with means and position for the times, Emma’s character is a sassy young woman of the 1800’s. She is frustratingly lovable and has an independent controlling nature that makes her feel she has to be the ultimate matchmaker of all surrounding her. The extremely talented Lianne Marie Dobbs gives Emma life and delivers the songs and delectable dialogue with amazing energy. Songs and lyrics are easy to listen to and add to the story with a pleasing affect.
With a smooth tenor, Timothy Gulan plays the admonishing Mr. Knightly, who blends with Dobbs’ Emma with smooth tones and influence with his chiding and censuring.
The delightful Leigh Ann Larkin as the befuddled Harriet Smith is a joy with perfect timing and lovely voice. Harriet Smith is a role that could be a little aggravating and silly, but Larkin makes us feel for her throughout the performance.
Musical Director William Liberator’s string quartet is amazing. Fumiko Bielefeldt’s gowns and men’s wardrobe are detailed and well executed. Steven B. Mannshardt’s lighting and Joe Ragey’s sets interact with camera work and the background.
As usual TheatreWorks delivers an elegant first-rate production.
For an evening of charming, enchanting theatre at its best, this revival of “Emma” with almost all former hands involved has it all.
“Emma”
Adapted from the novel by Jane Austen.
Music, lyrics and book by Paul Gordon
Directed by Robert Kelly
Where: Lucie Stern Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto
Through: Jan 2
Running time: 2 hours, 25 minutes with one intermission
Tickets: $19-80
Information: (650) 463-1960 or www.theatreworks.org
