A-State Theatre to Present ‘Emma,’ Adaptation of Jane Austen Classic

09/22/2025

JONESBORO - Arkansas State University's Department of Theatre will begin its 2025-26 season with a production of Kate Hamill's "Emma," a bold adaptation of a Jane Austen classic.

Performances in the Fowler Center's Drama Theatre, 201 Olympic Dr., are set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5; 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10 and 11; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12.

Playwright Kate Hamill brings her signature wit and vibrant storytelling to Jane Austen's classic novel in this smart, spirited adaptation. "Emma follows a well-meaning (if somewhat meddlesome) heroine who sets out to play matchmaker among her friends, only to discover love has its own plans. Overflowing with humor, charm and social satire, this fresh take on Austen's beloved tale promises a delightful evening at the theatre.

The cast includes Ella Scott of Jonesboro, as Emma; Isaiah Wallis of Harrison, as Mr. George Knightley; Judith Bossi of Batesville, as Mrs. Weston/Mrs. Bates; Kelly Clarke of Johannesburg, South Africa, as Jane Fairfax; Luke Holt of Jonesboro, as Mr. Weston/Mr. Woodhouse; Adam Arizaga of Russellville, as Robert Martin/Frank Churchill; Rayleigh Pratt of Clarksville, as Miss Bates/Servant; Lynzee Owens of Clarksville, as Harriet Smith; Libby Wills of Russellville, as Mrs. Elton/Servant; and Donovan Walters of Harrison, as Mr. Elton/Mrs. Bates.

The artistic team includes Brianna Larson, associate professor of theatre, director/choreographer; Jeff McLaughlin, associate professor of theatre, scenic designer; Eli Webb, guest artist, lighting designer; Claire Abernathy, professor of theatre, costume designer; Jace Hahns of Jonesboro, assistant to the costume designer; Emalee Gillean of Jonesboro, stage manager; Max Emery of Newport, Ryan Carr of Bono, and Maggie Martin of Jonesboro, assistant stage managers; and DayDay Robinson, assistant professor of theatre, intimacy choreographer and dialect coach.

The production team includes Olin Hahn of Jonesboro, properties manager; Kristen Barnes, light board operator; Kristen Harrell of Memphis, sound board operator; Bryson Cross of Jonesboro and Max Hyatt of Harrison, spotlight operators; Brenna McGowan of Jonesboro and Gigi Davis of Little Rock, wardrobe crew; Emarian Tate of Osceola and Evan Bishop of Trumann, backstage crew; and Zander Bishop of Trumann and Leah Max of Covington, house managers.

The production's content warnings include mild romantic situations and notions of matchmaking, gentle social satire, occasional passive-aggressive dialogue, very mild suggestive themes (but no explicit content).

Tickets may be purchased 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday at the A-State Box Office in First National Bank Arena, 217 Olympic Dr., or by calling (870) 972-2781. Tickets may also be purchased online at AState.edu/tickets. Prices are $15 for the general public.

A-State student tickets are free at the Box Office with a student ID. It is recommended that patrons reserve seats in advance.