THIRTEEN of Austen’s heroines come to life in this bold revisiting of some of literature’s most celebrated works. In this much loved Edinburgh festival sell out, using only Austen’s words, Rebecca Vaughan (Dalloway, I, Elizabeth, Female Gothic) becomes Emma Woodhouse, Lizzy Bennet, Mrs. Norris, Miss Bates and other beautifully observed women in critical moments from Austen’s major novels (including Pride and Prejudice, Sense and sensibility and Emma) and lesser known or unfinished works.

Jane Austen created of some of literature’s most celebrated characters, defining her era, sex and class. Two hundred years on, her works continue to speak for the yearning heart as much as they did when they were written – so just how much has really changed for women since then?

In a solo performance of extraordinary virtuosity – using only Austen’s words – Rebecca Vaughan boldly revisits the most rewarding moments from the ‘two inches of ivory’.

In scenes of high comedy and profound pathos, she deconstructs the souls of Emma Woodhouse, Lizzy Bennet, Mrs Norris, Miss Bates and nine other beautifully observed women. Divorced from their historical context (and in the absence of their men), these women present a glorious distillation of 19th century feminism and

speak volumes about love, friendship, and notorious inproprieties.

Austen lovers and the uninitiated alike will revel in this brilliant and illuminating evocation of Austen’s Women.

Bridgwater Arts Centre. Saturday, March 12 at 8pm.