Persuasion At The Oxford Playhouse Review

Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn

The trailer for Oxford Playhouse’s co-production Persuasion by Jane Austen boasts of a ‘Riot of Soapsuds and Sexual Tension’ and so it was with intrigue that we arrived at Oxford Playhouse for an evening of entertainment. This bold and daring adaptation, co-produced with the Rose Theatre and Alexandra Palace is now playing at the Oxford Playhouse and is Jane Austen’s classic tale as you’ve never seen it before!

The Oxford Playhouse is an independent theatre, situated opposite the Ashmolean Museum, it is a fabulous venue. We were able to park very easily and within a short distance of the theatre. The Oxford Playhouse is intimate and elegant and it was most evident it is a place which really cares about the art. The theatre itself is comfortable and adaptable, with not a bad seat in the house. All the staff were friendly and helpful and we were well looked after from start to finish.

Swapping bonnets for bikinis, this contemporary Persuasion is full of surprises from start to finish. Directed by Jeff James, the central themes of love, social mobility and marriage are all there, questioning if it is better to be firm in one’s convictions or be persuaded by others. The story and indeed, some dialogue is true to the novel and it is this mismatch which gives the most laughs.

Anne Elliot has lived with deep regret for eight years, having been persuaded at the age of 19 not to marry her one true love, Captain Frederick Wentworth. Her parents do not feel Wentworth is good enough for Anne and persuade her to do better – this is the persuasion of Persuasion’s title. We meet Anne at the start of the play, eight years later, she is considered by those around her to be getting rather old for marriage – indeed there is an obsession in the society about marrying and marrying well.

This is a production that is full of fun and there is much to enjoy. With contemporary costumes (think shell suits and nightclubs) and a minimalistic elevated, rotating set, Persuasion is unique and cleverly presented. The soundtrack works brilliantly too, with tracks from Frank Ocean, Dua Lipa and Cardi B as we are taken on a riotous journey with foam parties and romps in Lyme Regis to parties in Bath.

Sasha Frost is perfectly cast and rises to the challenge, playing the sensitive and reflectful Anne with finesse. She contrasts perfectly with the more exuberant characters of Louisa and Henrietta, played with cracking comic timing by Matilda Bates and Caroline Moroney, who strut the stage with great dance moves! The talented, playful cast work very well together to entertain the audience and give everyone a fun time.

Bringing Jane Austen to the present day, this is a most accessible play for all generations and as well as frivolity there are also heart felt swooning moments. As with clubbing, latex and foam parties, this modern production may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it certainly packs a punch for ‘mischievous fun’ and deserves to be celebrated.

Rating: 4/5

Tickets cost from £10.00
Persuasion is at the Oxford Playhouse in Oxford from Saturday 7 May to Saturday 14 May 2022, for more information or to book tickets visit https://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/events/persuasion or call the box office on 01865 305305

The Oxford Playhouse, 11-12 Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW