A bold retelling of Jane Austen’s Persuasion comes to Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre in May for a five week run.

Jeff James, who also directs, has adapted Austen’s final masterpiece alongside James Yeatman.  Designed by Alex Lowde, the contemporary production of the powerful love story takes place in-the-round at the Royal Exchange Theatre.

What is Persuasion about?

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 is now a serious catch. When circumstances bring the two face to face again, Anne Elliot must confront the past. As old wounds reopen, will Wentworth’s resentment keep him away?  Will Anne finally decide what she really wants?

The new production of Persuasion reveals a modern vision of Austen and her work.  Jeff James discards bonnets and trappings of a formal life in this contemporary production.

Who are the cast and crew of Persuasion at the Royal Exchange Theatre?

Persuasion will star Lara Rossi as the heroine Anne alongside Samuel Edward-Wood as Captain Wentworth.  Geraldine Alexander, Antony Bunsee, Helen Cripps, Cassie Layton, Caroline Moroney, Dorian Simpson and Arthur Wilson complete the cast.

Director Jeff James, who has also adapted the novel, has worked regularly with the Young Vic and as Associate Director with multi award-winning director Ivo van Hove.

Design is by Alex Lowde who received the Critics Award for Theatre Design in Scotland in 2009 and 2010.

Music and sound is from Ben and Max Ringham who have produced scores and sound designs for more than 40 major productions, working extensively in the West End, at the National Theatre and the RSC.

Lucy Carter joins the creative team as Lighting Designer.  Movement comes from Morgann Runacre-Temple.

Where and when is Persuasion performed in Manchester?

Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre hosts Persuasion from 25 May until 24 June.  Performances 7.30pm (Monday-Saturday) 2.30pm (Saturday, Sunday and Thursday).

Tickets from £16.50.

Royal Exchange Theatre image courtesy University of Salford Press Office/flickr under creative commons licence.