‘Emma’ opens at the Fort Smith Little Theatre

The Fort Smith Little Theatre held it's gala performance of Emma on Thursday (July 18), with more than 100 theatre patrons supporting the stage adaptation of a popular novel.

The play is based on a novel by Jane Austen, adapted by Michael Bloom and directed by Micki Voelkel.

Emma is a two-act love story from one of the most widely read writers of all time. The play's main character, Emma, is a beautiful and clever young woman who prides herself in matchmaking, but is clueless to her own feelings of love. The story is written about 19th century England where marriage is the ultimate game. During one matchmaking effort, her game plan back fires on her and creates a multiplicity of complications.

As the audience was treated to witty lines and light humor in this romantic comedy, they laughed and applauded throughout the show. The characters in this play go through many wardrobe changes with beautiful dresses and attire that are period correct for the piece. Jill Ledbetter custom crafted the hats for the female cast members.

"The only passion I have that is greater than my love for theatre is my love for classic literature. Jane Austen passed away almost 200 years ago, but her stories still have a fresh, modern, feminine sensibility that speaks to us today,” Voelkel said. “‘Emma’ has everything – humor, singing, dancing, and romance. It's the perfect way to spend a summer evening.”

Emma's character is played by Valerie Baldwin, who is a native of Conway, Ark. She just moved to the Fort Smith area from St. Louis. This is her second performance at the Little Theatre, but her first leading role. Baldwin has a bachelor's degree in theatre, and  began her theatrical interest during high school. The hardest part of this play for her was to learn her numerous lines. Baldwin wishes to one day to perform professionally in Chicago or New York.

Kathy Cazzell, a season ticket holder, enjoyed the performance.

“I am amazed and astounded of the quality of talent at the Fort Smith Little Theatre.  My husband and I have been to Broadway and London and haven't seen any better talent,” Cazell said.

Cazzell and her husband became season ticket holders as the result of a Christmas gift from their children and since that time their children have made it a tradition to present them with season tickets as a Christmas gift.

Regular performances will be held July 19, 20, 24-27 with a matinee on July 21. Link to the theatre website for info on tickets and times.