THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JANE AUSTEN - (abridged)
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https://genesiantheatre.com.au/events/the-complete-works-of-jane-austen-abridged/
Date Reviewed: 07/08/2026
How do you take the work of Jane Austen, world renowned English author of the 18th century; in particular Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and Emma, just to name a few, and merge them into an 80-minute romp on stage?
That's exactly what The Genesian Theatre Company has attempted to do.
Originally written by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast and Meghan Winch and first premiering at The Physick House in Philadelphia, on June 16, 2019, THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JANE AUSTEN - (abridged) is a fast-paced romp through Austen's masterpieces. We are talking three actors and six novels; all of Austen's beloved heroines, companions and lovers wrapped within her incisive social satire, on stage.
To the audience’s delight, the Genesian Company do just that, both convincingly and very successfully.
When two dedicated fans of Jane Austen (Janeites) lose a cast member for their ambitious theatrical tribute, the two remaining Janeites must teach an understudy, pulled from the audience, about her work. What results is lightning-fast costume changes, sharp humour, and a dash of modern mischief. It's a race against the clock to sprint through the romances, social commentary and love plots that are all part of Austen's world. What transpires is guaranteed to delight the most loyal of Austen fans and newcomers who may not be familiar with her work.
The play is directed by Ali Bendall and features Peter Hoekstra-Bass, Heidi Jilwan and Georgia Britt in multiple roles. The chemistry between these three is quite unique as they and the characters they portray bounce off each other while delivering a series of humorous jibes and expressions. Understudies include, Harry Charlesworth, Isla Harris and Ali Bendall.
The set is static but appropriate and the costuming by Susan Carveth suitably assists in setting the mood. There is also some very effective use of both lighting and sound effects, elements shared by Cian Byrne and Ali Bendall.
Overall, I had a smile and a number of chuckles throughout the performance. It was a delight.
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JANE AUSTEN - (abridged) is playing at the new home of the Genesian Theatre Company, in St Joseph's Church precinct, 2B Gordon Street, Rozelle. This was my first visit to the Genesian Theatre and it did not disappoint. It presents as a very professional unit.
The play is present as two 45-minute acts with a 20-minute interval. THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JANE AUSTEN - (abridged) opened on Saturday 18 July, 2026 and closes on Saturday 22nd August, 2026. Totally worth the visit.
Reviewed by Vincent Brincat