Review: Emma (Rose Theatre)

Review by Rosie Holmes

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There’s no shortage of Jane Austen offerings in London’s theatreland (my own last review was of an imagined sequel to Pride and Prejudice!), but at the Rose Theatre, Kingston, Emma proves that Austen’s enduring themes and stories remain perfect fodder for the modern age. Ava Pickett’s adaptation of Emma is not your typical period drama, in fact its not a period drama at all, it’s a sharp, funny, and thoroughly modern rom-com that places this classic tale of misguided matchmaking and self-discovery firmly in the 21st century in a land of vapes, dating apps and Love Island.

Set not in Regency England but in the small Essex town of Highbury, this Emma trades bonnets and ballrooms for co-op shops and beauty salons. Our heroine, played by the brilliant Amelia Kenworthy, is clever, still “handsome,” and an Oxford student who has reluctantly returned to her hometown. Desperate to escape the confines of Highbury, Emma distracts herself by meddling in the lives of others.

Frankly, she’s insufferable. With an outward-facing superiority complex and a stunning lack of self-awareness, Emma is a frustrating character, yet, Kenworthy, in her stage debut no less, manages to imbue her with just enough charm and vulnerability that you can’t help but root for her. It’s a delicate balance, showcasing her talent and skill.

The chemistry between Emma and her best friend Harriet is an absolute highlight. Harriet is played with delightful awkwardness and warmth by Sofia Oxenham, whose Harriet is loveable and grounded, a perfect foil to Emma’s more acerbic personality. It’s hard to believe this is Oxenham’s professional stage debut; she delivers some of the funniest lines in the show with impeccable timing, making Harriet a standout character. Kit Young brings a quiet charisma to George Knightley, Emma’s long-time frenemy and potential love interest. While Young is compelling in the role, the storyline between Emma and George feels slightly underdeveloped. The play hints at a longstanding enmity that never quite materialises on stage, which means the emotional payoff at the end doesn’t hit as hard as it could. However, It’s a minor flaw in an otherwise tightly written piece.

Nigel Lindsay is a scene-stealer as Emma’s wheeler-dealer dad. His ability to make you laugh and cry in the same breath is remarkable. Lucy Benjamin plays Mrs Bates, the local beauty therapist, with warmth and humour. While her character leans into familiar stereotypes, Benjamin’s unexpected talent for physical comedy elevates the role and makes her utterly endearing.

One of the greatest strengths of this production is the writing. Ava Pickett’s script is some of the best comedic writing I’ve seen in the last year. There are multiple laugh-out-loud moments, and the entire cast ensures the jokes land with precision. The humour is fresh, fast-paced, and perfectly pitched for a modern audience. “I know she looks clever, but she just doesn’t wear make-up” was a line that really tickled both myself and my friend.

Christopher Haydon’s direction is dynamic and energetic, with scenes of physical comedy and rapid-fire dialogue that keep the audience engaged throughout. The cast works hard, and their efforts pay off in a production that feels both polished and spontaneous. Lilly Arnold’s set design is a triumph. The Essex home, complete with “Live, Laugh, Love” prints, is the perfect backdrop for the farcical scenes that unfold. The clever use of multiple doors allows for classic comedy setups and quick transitions, adding to the play’s lively pace.

Special mention must go to the music, its a packed pop playlist that perfectly complements the tone of the show. From scene transitions to emotional beats, the soundtrack adds a layer of fun which really makes this a perfect night out. I’ve had the playlist on repeat while writing this review.

Emma at the Rose Theatre is a witty, vibrant, and thoroughly enjoyable production that reimagines Austen’s classic with a contemporary twist. While the central romance could have benefited from deeper exploration, the cast’s performances, the sharp comedic writing, and the lively direction more than make up for it. This is no period drama, it’s a modern rom-com filled with relatable characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a heart that beats true to Austen’s original themes. Whether you’re an Austen aficionado or just looking for a night of smart, feel-good theatre, Emma at the Rose Theatre is well worth the trip to Kingston.

Emma plays at Rose Theatre until 11th October 2025, tickets can be found here - Emma — Based on the novel by Jane Austen | Rose Theatre, Kingston, London

Photos by Marc Brenner