The Watsons

Laura Wade’s “theatrical gold” (Variety) adaptation of an unfinished Jane Austen novel transfers to the West End after a sell-out run at Menier Chocolate Factory. The Watsons is a sparkling tribute to Austen’s classic matchmaking satires and earned five-star raves during its Chichester Festival Theatre premiere.

Where is it showing?

The Watsons is showing at the Harold Pinter Theatre.

When does it open?

The play opens on 8 May 2020.

What is it about?

Emma Watson’s rich aunt has kicked her out, her brother and his wife are unbearable, and a lifetime of poverty and spinsterhood is far from attractive. Whether it’s the flirty Tom Musgrave or the rich but painfully awkward Lord Osborne, she must make a match – and quickly.

But unlike Lizzie Bennett, this Austen protagonist has been left hanging by her own author… and it’s a truth universally acknowledged that an unfinished book must be in want of a theatrical re-imagining! Fizzing with humour and invention, The Watsons is a delightfully witty peek behind the empire waistlines and pretty bonnets we all know and love.

Who is in it?

The West End cast of The Watson includes Grace Molony as Emma Watson, Louise Ford as Laura, Sam Alexander as Robert Watson, John Wilson Goddard as Mr Watson, Paksie Vernon as Elizabeth Watson and Rhianna McGreevy as Margaret Watson.

Who is the creative team?

Playwright Laura Wade adapts The Watsons from Jane Austen’s famously unfinished final novel. Her most recent work is the Olivier Award-winning Home, I’m Darling, although she is best known for her scathing take on private schools in Posh.

The Watsons is directed by Samuel West (Darkest Hour), with design from Ben Stones, lighting from Richard Howell, sound from Gregory Clarke, and music from Isobel Waller-Bridge (BBC’s Fleabag).

How long is it?

The running time for The Watsons is 2 hours 15 minutes, including an interval.

Important information

Playing at: Harold Pinter Theatre, Panton Street, London, SW1Y 4DN

Performance dates: 01 Sep 2020 - 01 Jul 2020

Running time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including interval)

Age recommendation: TBC

Special notice: Fans of literary send-up Austentatious or new jukebox musical & Juliet will find lots to enjoy in The Watsons. Anyone who’s devoured Austen’s books and wants to finally find out the conclusion of Emma Watson’s story should also book tickets for the show.