Lauren Kennedy Leads Reading of New 60s Musical Adaptation of Jane Austen's 'Emma' at Ars Nova, 12/8

BroadwayWorld has learned that Lauren Kennedy (Spamalot, Side Show, Sunset Blvd., Vanities) will lead readings of the new musical, The Emma Woodhouse Single Girls Guide, a stage re-imagination of Jane Austen's 1815 novel, Emma.

In Austen's Emma, Emma Woodhouse fancies herself to be naturally gifted matchmaker. The story begins when Emma takes it upon herself to find an eligible match for her new friend, Harriet Smith. Emma is convinced that Harriet deserves to be a gentleman’s wife and sets her friend’s sights on Mr. Elton, the village vicar. Meanwhile, Emma persuades Harriet to reject the proposal of Robert Martin, a well-to-do farmer for whom Harriet clearly has feelings. In the process, she finds herself in an unconventional love match with resident "bad boy" bachelor, Mr. Knightly.  

The new show sets the classic story in 1964 America.  Kennedy will star as Emma Woodhouse, now a relationship advice columnist under the direction of her future paramour, Mr. Knightley. The character of Harriet is positioned as the single girl subject in Emma's column.

The Emma Woodhouse Single Girls Guide features a book by Gordon Greenberg and music and lyrics by Tommy Newman. Greenberg also directs. Zachary Dietz will musical direct as well as provide the musical arrangements.

The readings are produced by Ars Nova and the Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany. The industry reading is set for December 8 at 3pm and will also feature: Graham Rowat as Mr. Knightley, Nick Wyman as Emma's father Henry Woodhouse, Farah Alvin as Harriet, Steve Rosen as Martin, Clarke Thorell Mr. Elton and Kathy Fitzgerald as Ms. Sipkins/Truman Capote.

Photo Credit: Peter James Zielinski