To celebrate 200 years of the work of one of Britain’s greatest authors, a newly adapted production of Jane Austen’s novel Persuasion visits the Playhouse from 9th-13th October.

Brought to the stage by Theatre6 and Catherine Schreiber, Jane Austen’s final novel is performed on stage for the first time as part of a U.K. tour, featuring an original score by Maria HaIk Escudero. Directed by Kate McGregor with costumes inspired by the period, the production sees the theatre company behind the critically-acclaimed Gabriel, featuring Paul McGann, return to the Playhouse for the first time since 2017.

Published in 1817 – six months after Austen’s death, Persuasion follows Anne Elliot – a young woman in love. Swept off her feet by the dashing but poor naval officer, Captain Wentworth, she devastatingly rejects his marriage proposal because of her selfish society-obsessed family.

Several years later and Wentworth has returned from sea.  Will a chance encounter lead Anne back to her true love, or to a life forever alone.

Adapted for the stage by Stephanie Dale the production casting includes actors Ceri Lyn-Cissone, Wirral-born Matthew Atkins, Siobhan Gerrard, Indigo Griffiths, Jason Ryall and Lucinda Turner.

Actor Matthew Atkins said: “I am so excited to perform at the Liverpool Playhouse. I grew up on the Wirral and while at school our drama group would go to watch shows almost every week at the Playhouse and the Everyman, it is genuinely where I first dreamt of becoming a performer.

I’ve been lucky to perform up and down the country as well as overseas but there is nothing quite like coming home with a show you a proud of.”

Persuasion visits the Playhouse for five nights from Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th October. Tickets are on sale now and available at: www.everymanplayhouse.com/whats-on or by calling 0151 709 4776.