Knoxville TN, September 22, 2025
News Summary
The Clarence Brown Theatre has launched its new season with Kate Hamill’s adaptation of ‘Sense and Sensibility.’ This production celebrates Jane Austen’s enduring appeal, coinciding with her 250th birthday. Featuring a fresh, energetic portrayal, the adaptation highlights themes of reputation and societal pressures through the experiences of the Dashwood sisters. Directed by Casey Sams, this version aims to make Austen’s work accessible while incorporating elements of cultural representation. The play runs from September 17 to October 5, offering audiences a comedic yet poignant reflection on timeless issues.
KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — The Clarence Brown Theatre (CBT) has officially opened its 2025-26 season with the debut of Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, coinciding with the growing popularity of Jane Austen’s work as part of the celebration for her 250th birthday in 2025. This adaptation reflects the recent Austen mania, as audiences are increasingly drawn to her timeless narratives.
Kate Hamill is recognized for her skill in adapting 19th-century literature and has previously originated the role of Marianne Dashwood in the Off-Broadway premiere of Sense and Sensibility. The current production at CBT is directed by Faculty Professor Casey Sams from the University of Tennessee (UT) and offers an energetic yet incomplete portrayal of the narrative, allowing audiences to form their own judgments regarding the characters’ moral standings.
The story centers on the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who find themselves in financial ruins following the death of their father. The concept of primogeniture is pivotal here, as it restricts inheritance to their elder brother, compelling the sisters to seek marriage for economic security.
In the production, Elinor Dashwood is portrayed by McKinley Merritt, while Develyn Jayan takes on the role of Marianne Dashwood. The plot explores their romantic pursuits, with Elinor entangled with Edward Ferrars and Lucy Steele, and Marianne caught between John Willoughby and Colonel Brandon. Additionally, the adaptation creatively includes an ensemble cast dressed as “gossips,” humorously addressing the hypocrisy of social class.
This production stands out for its theatricality and satirical tone, making it accessible to those who may not be familiar with Austen’s works. Highlights of the performance include significant contributions from secondary characters, particularly Gabriela Bulka as Mrs. Jennings and Sammy Pontello as Colonel Brandon. The visual aesthetics are enhanced by scenic design from Sophie Smrcka and lighting by Dylan Tillery.
The production runs from September 17 to October 5 at the Clarence Brown Theatre on the UT campus. Director Casey Sams expresses that the adaptation serves as a playful yet serious reflection on themes of reputation and social pressures that remain relevant today. The gossips in the play illustrate how societal gossip can function both humorously and destructively.
Elinor and Marianne embody contrasting approaches to societal expectations, representing “sense” and “sensibility,” respectively. Jayan, who portrays Marianne, creatively incorporates cultural elements from her Indian heritage into her character’s wardrobe, further emphasizing the importance of storytelling and cultural representation in adapting classic literature.
Discounted tickets are available for audience members interested in experiencing this comedic and emotionally rich narrative filled with societal commentary. The Clarence Brown Theatre invites everyone to enjoy the exploration of Jane Austen’s work through this fresh and engaging adaptation.
FAQ
What is the title of the production at Clarence Brown Theatre?
The title of the production at Clarence Brown Theatre is Kate Hamill’s adaptation of “Sense and Sensibility.”
When does the show run?
The show runs from September 17 to October 5 at the Clarence Brown Theatre on the UT campus.
What themes does the adaptation explore?
The adaptation explores themes of reputation and social pressures relevant today.
Who are the main characters in the production?
The main characters are Elinor Dashwood, portrayed by McKinley Merritt, and Marianne Dashwood, played by Develyn Jayan.
{
“@context”: “https://schema.org”,
“@type”: “FAQPage”,
“mainEntity”: [
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “What is the title of the production at Clarence Brown Theatre?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “The title of the production at Clarence Brown Theatre is Kate Hamill’s adaptation of ‘Sense and Sensibility.'”
}
},
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “When does the show run?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “The show runs from September 17 to October 5 at the Clarence Brown Theatre on the UT campus.”
}
},
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “What themes does the adaptation explore?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “The adaptation explores themes of reputation and social pressures relevant today.”
}
},
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “Who are the main characters in the production?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “The main characters are Elinor Dashwood, portrayed by McKinley Merritt, and Marianne Dashwood, played by Develyn Jayan.”
}
}
]
}
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Production Title | Hamill’s adaptation of “Sense and Sensibility” |
| Show Dates | September 17 to October 5 |
| Main Characters | Elinor Dashwood (McKinley Merritt), Marianne Dashwood (Develyn Jayan) |
| Themes | Reputation, social pressures, societal hypocrisy |
| Director | Casey Sams |
| Visual Design | Scenic design by Sophie Smrcka, lighting by Dylan Tillery |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Clarence Brown Theatre Opens Season with Modern Austen Classic
University of Tennessee Announces 2025-26 Theatre and Music Season
Knoxville to Showcase a Spectacular Theatre Season
Additional Resources
- Arts Knoxville: Review of CBT’s Sense and Sensibility
- Inside Knoxville: A Conversation with Director Casey Sams
- Knox TN Today
- The Daily Beacon: Preview of Sense and Sensibility
- WBIR: Sense and Sensibility to Open at UT’s CBT
- Wikipedia: Jane Austen
- Google Search: Sense and Sensibility
- Google Scholar: Sense and Sensibility
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sense and Sensibility
- Google News: Sense and Sensibility
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
