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Alexandra Palace announces co-production of stage adaptation of Jane Austen's PERSUASION

It has been announced today that Alexandra Palace will co-produce a stage adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic romance, Persuasion, playing at the iconic North London venue in April 2022.

Adapted by Jeff James and James Yeatman, the piece brings all the sharp observation and quick wit of Jane Austen’s novel to the stage, without a bonnet in sight, and has been riotously reinvented for the twenty-first century with an explosive foam party and a soundtrack of Frank Ocean, Dua Lipa and Cardi B!

When Captain Wentworth proposed to Anne Elliot eight years ago, he was penniless and had only love and ambition to offer. Persuaded out of accepting his proposal by her family, Anne’s never quite got over her first love.

But now Wentworth is back. Rich, successful and single, the handsome Captain has been transformed into a serious catch. When circumstances bring the two face to face again, Anne's forced to confront the past. As old wounds reopen, will Wentworth forgive Anne for rejecting him, and will Anne finally learn to trust her desires?

In addition to director Jeff James, the creative team includes designer Alex Lowde, lighting designer Lucy Carter, and music/sound designers Ben and Max Ringham.

Alexandra Palace Chief Executive Louise Stewart said: “We are delighted to be presenting our first co-production in collaboration with Rose Theatre, Kingston. I can’t wait to see this classic story told on both stages next year. This is definitely something to look forward to.”

Artistic Director of Rose Theatre, Christopher Haydon, said: “I am delighted to be working with Alexandra Palace to present Persuasion - they have a gorgeous space and a fantastic team and it is thrilling to be able to share this production with as wide an audience in London as possible.  I very much hope this will be the start of a longer and fruitful partnership.”

The production arrives at Ally Pally Theatre on 7 April for a limited run 2022 following its opening at Rose Theatre, Kingston in February during Christopher Haydon’s inaugural season as Artistic Director.

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