The Jane Austen Fan Club is set up like any other regency fan club. In a lovely space with even lovelier people. You are greeted by two wonderful women called Ellie and Charlotte who are the vice presidents of the local Jane Austen Fan Club. Whilst waiting to celebrate Jane's 251's birthday with a special guest, the duo really make you feel at home and immerse you in their world (quite literally). 

Through audience participation, both Ellie (Emily Adams) and Charlotte (Sophie Ross) introduce you to some of the best parts of Austen and her catalogue of tales. From regency dancing, to matchmaking and life advice. There was no stone left unturned in this slightly unhinged yet brilliant birthday celebration. 

As the show unfolds, audience members are brought into the show to support the retellings. Whether it's an acting piece, or a musical number (shout out the TLC 'No Scrubs on recorder moment) both Adams and Ross are incredible at their ad-libs and engagement to really bring a room together without compromising the integrity of the script. 

Of course amongst the cake, bonnets, and swooning over Colin Firth in that role, there was a thread of truth and sadness. The creative team worked for 18 months with groups of (mostly) women and girls to develop the story and help shape it. Looking at statistics around the gender economic gap, relationships, and financial instability, it balanced the humour and harrowing facts to showcase that whilst it seems we have moved on in the last 250 years, there are still some difficulties women can face. 

The Jane Austen Fan Club is a celebration of not only a brilliant author, but friendships, feminism, and having some jolly good fun. A fantastic night to laugh, get involved, and maybe become the clubs new secretary. 

Touring the Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire area before performing in London, this is a brilliant show you won't want to miss.