It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen's timelessly precious gift-that-keeps-on-giving will continue to delight and inspire the world for as long as there is a world. The story will soar on, beyond every form of media we humans can devise--which is why author Josie Brown and I were moved to make a musical of it, a humbling experience which demanded of us the best, and then some. While others have tweaked, twisted and revised the tale to make it theirs, we aspired to keep it authentic, as if Jane herself decided to add songs. And the sweet audiences at our Ruislip Operatic Society, UK world premiere in November seemed to approve. Happy Anniversary, Jane, and thank you from the bottom of our millions and millions of hearts.
Says Librettist Josie Brown:
Of all my writing accomplishments, no one project has touched my heart more than the musical I've created with Rita Abrams. My love for Jane Austen's words are second to none. The opportunity to bring this particular story to life is an honor. For part of your celebration, please feel free to click onto these song samples -- and the full songs, too!
Enjoy!
-- Josie
