It is a truth universally acknowledged…

… that Jane Austen was one of the wittiest observers of human relationships and female friendships who ever put pen to parchment.

Starring Juliet Stevenson star of screen Truly, Madly Deeply, Emma, Bend It Like Beckham and stage National Theatre, RSC, Almeida, Royal Court and Rachel Parris Austentatious, Live at the Apollo, The Mash Report and author of Introducing Mrs Collins.

Jane Austen’s life story, from her own writing, woven with favourite moments from the immortal characters she created, including Elizabeth and Jane, Emma and Harriet, the Dashwood sisters, Mrs Bennet, and (hold on to your bonnets) Lady Catherine de Bourgh – not forgetting Mr Bennet, Darcy, Captain Wentworth, Mr Collins and many more.

Performed on the Bowling Green and set against a sparkling musical backdrop – that surprises as much as it delights – we invite you to loosen your stays, and enjoy this celebration of Austen’s wit, sharpness, and her sheer joy in the foibles of human behaviour.

By A Lady is (delightfully) performed by Juliet Stevenson and Rachel Parris.

Jane Austen’s words are (respectfully) penned by Deirdre Shields and (graciously) directed by Judy Reaves, with music (mischievously) arranged and performed by David Le Page (Violin) and Nick Stringfellow (Cello).

Originally commissioned by, and presented at, Stratford Literary Festival 2025.

Good to know

The performance will be held on the Bowling Green, nestled in the heart of Painswick Rococo Garden.

To enhance your experience, you can pre-order a cheese and charcuterie box. This delectable box features an assortment of local cheeses, meats, artisan bread, Rococo Garden chutney crafted from homegrown ingredients and salad leaves/olives – all without any plastic! More details to follow.

You’re welcome to arrive and get comfortable up to 45 minutes prior to the start of the performance. The performance will be presented in two 40-minute sections, with an interval in between.

Tickets for this immersive theatrical experience are £35 per person and can be booked by clicking visiting www.rococogarden.org.uk. We’re expecting it to be very popular, so don’t delay!

This is an outdoor performance:

• Bring a chair or picnic blanket to sit on.
• You’re welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy – including your favourite tipple!
• We are looking forward to a warm summer evening, but bringing blankets for extra warmth might be a good idea! In case of extreme weather, the performance will be moved indoors to St. Mary’s Church in Painswick.
• We recommend wearing comfortable footwear for your visit.
• The Garden is in a valley with some steep and uneven pathways and loose surfaces which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. We advise against using motorised scooters or wheelchairs. Please call us if you would like any further accessibility information on 01452 813204.
• There is ample free parking at the Garden.

Juliet Stevenson and Rachel Parris appear subject to availability.