Persuasion

Jane Austen’s classic novel of love, loss, and second chances is given new life in this new adaptation by Resident Artist Company member Kerry Skram. As a young woman, Anne Elliot broke her engagement with Frederick Wentworth after being persuaded by her family that he was not the one for her.  Years later, Anne arrives at her father’s new home in Bath to find that her family has been socializing with the now Captain Wentworth, who has had a successful career with the Royal Navy and proved his bravery fighting in WWI.

Now forced into each other’s company, Anne wrestles with the feelings she still has for Captain Wentworth, despite his coolness toward her.  However, when another suitor arrives in pursuit of Anne – and the family estate – everyone pays attention, especially Wentworth.  Will they be able to let go of their what-ifs and could-have-beens to rediscover their love?

Set in 1920, updated from the original 1830s, this retelling of Jane Austen’s final novel tells a romantic story about a second chance at love. A reading of Skram’s adaptation of Persuasion was ISTC’s first digital production in August of 2020.