For a long time, Jane Austen’s books have been revered and considered an important part of English literature. Their didactic nature and tendency to expose society’s shortcomings are two of many reasons for such. Sense and Sensibility, one of Austen’s more famous works, is no exception. The book tells the story of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne. As they both begin to grow and come of age, they find themselves navigating the turbulent waters of love as they try to find their place in a world where society has placed upon them expectations due to their gender, lack of money and connections.

Having been written in the English of the 1800’s, the story may be difficult for some to comprehend. With the help of playwright Jessica Swale, South Coast Repertory does an outstanding job of adapting the book into a simpler script without sacrificing the original tones and feelings of the book. The result was the production of a wonderful play that any person can understand. The actors were able to get across their character’s emotions and thoughts to the audience, a testament to the directing ability of directress Casey Stangl.

Rebecca Mozo’s mannerisms and way of speaking were the full embodiment of Marianne Dashwood. She brought forth Marianne’s tempestuous and romantic nature. Mozo’s way of walking was a quick indicator of the character’s mood. Quick large steps meant exhilaration, long and slow drawn out steps indicated Marianne’s infatuation with Willoughby (played by Preston Butler III). Butler’s voice and calm nature was a perfect fit for the charming and profligate John Willoughby. His and Mozo’s on-stage chemistry did not seem staged or acted. It was genuine and allowed the audience to feel the emotional connection between Marianne and Willoughby that Austen wrote of. Similarly, Josh Odsess-Rubin was perfectly awkward and tense when he played Edward Ferrars, Elinor’s love interest. Rubin was the full embodiment of Edward, an honorable character that decides keeping his promise of marriage to another girl is more important than being happy with Elinor. Hilary Ward (who played the latter) also did justice to Austen’s own Elinor. As Elinor, Ward effectively juxtaposed Marianne’s romantic nature: she was practical, strong and realistic. The way she handled her heartbreak was calmly and with dignity, a drastic difference when compared to Mozo’s instant depression and miserableness.

All other actors are deserving of praise as well. Matt Orduna, Abigail Marks and Rachel Charny were remarkable in their numerous roles. Playing one character often requires a lot of preparation and time, so the actors’ ability to play one or two more roles says a lot about their talent. A prime example is Abigail Marks who was able to play Fanny and Mrs. Jennings, two characters who couldn’t be more different from each other.

Without a doubt, South Coast Repertory adaptation of Sense and Sensibility was superb. It lived up to the legacy Austen left behind all the while adding its own twist with a multi-ethnic cast, celebrating the diversity that makes up our country today.