By Marilyn Barber

On a very warm and sunny summer evening what could be better than sitting in the grounds of a beautiful house, being treated to a highly professional production of Sense and Sensibility?

Written by Jane Austen but adapted by British playwright Jessica Swale, it follows the loves, heartaches and subsequent triumph of kindness over material wealth of the three Dashwood sisters who are forced to move with their widowed mother from a big estate to a modest cottage.

Set in the late 18^th century the story moves between locations in Sussex, South East England and London, with the creative team of set builders having come up with subtle and innovative set changes.

I would normally pick out a number of performances to highlight but with a large cast of 16 main players, it is impossible to single out particular actors as they all – yes all –put in highly accomplished well rounded portrayals, getting under the skin of their characters. No weak links at all.

Many of the actors have been part of the local am-dram scene for several years, but they interact brilliantly with those who are new to Wimborne and to open air theatre.

The auditions were held in early March 2020 and the cast only managed one rehearsal before lock-down, so this production has been long awaited and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Huge accolades to director Tracey Nicholls and to the cast of – in order of appearance – Michelle Barter, Jo Eva Edington, Bethan Morris, Judy Garrett, Colin Pile, Sali Pike, Calum Hearne, James Renwick, Heather Bichenough, Tony Parkinson, Gary Paine, Rob Cording-Cook, Richard Scotson, Lindsay McGowan, Jemma Cable and Kelly Webb.

It runs until Sunday 17 July, with performances on Friday and Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 5pm. The forecast is good so do get a ticket from the Tivoli Theatre box office on 01202 885566 or www.TivoliWimborne.co.uk