Casting and creative team have been announced for the Austin Playhouse's forthcoming production of Emma. Kate Hamill's adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel premiered at Minneapolis’ Guthrie Theatre in 2022. Lara Toner Haddock directs the production, which will play the Texas venue May 31–June 30.

The cast will feature Ella Mia Carter as Emma, Michelina Haralson as Harriet Smith, Stephen Mercantel as Mr. Knightley, David Stahl as Mr. Woodhouse, Hans Venable as Mr. Weston, Bailey Ellis as Mr. Elton, Sarah Zeringue as Anne Weston, Nick Hunter as Frank Churchill, Sarah Chong Dickey as Jane Fairfax, and Laura Walberg as Miss Bates.

Hamill's interpretation offers a "screwball comedy" take on the Regency-era romance, with quirky, modern twists that speak to not only then but now.

“We’re in this cultural moment where Barbie dominated the box office and Taylor Swift and Beyoncé had wildly successful world tours. Of all Jane Austen's heroines, Emma is undoubtedly the one that naturally fits into this empowered female superstar moment. With this adaptation, Kate Hamill has created an updated Emma that's still set in Regency England but embraces a connection to today’s world," said director Toner Haddock in a statement.

The production will also have lighting design by Mark Novick, scenic design by Mike Toner, sound design by Robert S. Fisher, and costume design by Buffy Manners with dramaturgy by Margaret Hoard and choreography by Erin Ryan.

Robert Tolaro will serve as stage manager alongside Grace Ramsden as assistant stage manager.

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