Emma

Amid the cacophony of boundary pushing, risqué, and downright bizarre productions available at the Fringe, audiences can breathe a sigh of relief and relax in the comfort of Emma, the well known and well loved classic by Jane Austen.

Brian McMahon and Emma Whipday have skilfully skimmed the novel down to a manageable hour and 15 minute-long production. It remains true to the original dialogue and plot with only a few omissions or adjustments in order to condense the story to its essential seven characters.

As Emma tries disastrously to marry off her friend Harriet Smith to the smug Mr Elton before the arrival of Frank Churchill complicates everything further, Austen’s detailed characterisation and delightfully twisting plot are what carry the production through, as the actors move confidently within the expectations of their characters.

Unfortunately, this staid reverence for the original text is the production’s greatest flaw. The most original and refreshing aspect of it is the beautiful score by John Murton; otherwise the entire performance feels distinctly lack-lustre. A basic set, some badly fitting costumes and occasional line slips let the side down, and despite some good performances the actors lack the energy and ability to really bring the story to life. Their mannerisms and inflections are predictable, and are often unnaturally exaggerated, creating one-dimensional characters.

As Austen adaptations go, this is a solid production. But with all the variety and innovation available at the Fringe, this reliable classic needs to be freshened up to make it really worth seeing.