Ensemble Theatre Company of Santa Barbara (ETC) has added a special performance of the West Coast premiere of “The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged,” 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16 in honor of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth.

The show is being staged at The New Vic, 33 W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara.

Ensemble performers wearing party hats and lounging on a setee are ready for party time. (Courtesy photo)
A post-show birthday party will take place after the Dec. 16 production of ‘The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged’ at The New Vic. (Courtesy photo)

“Born on Dec. 16, 1775 in Steventon, Hampshire, England, Jane Austen revolutionized the novel form and created timeless classics that have captivated readers for over two centuries,” Ensemble Theatre said. “To celebrate this milestone anniversary, ETC will transform The New Vic into a festive tribute to one of literature’s most beloved authors.”

Patrons are encouraged to come in Regency or festive attire for the evening, Tollowing 90-minute production there will be a post-show birthday celebration honoring Austen’s legacy.

“What better way to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday than with a production that captures everything we love about her work — the wit, the romance, the unforgettable heroines — delivered with contemporary comedic flair,” said Scott DeVine, ETC’s executive artistic director.

“This special performance gives our community a unique opportunity to celebrate an author whose insights into human nature remain as fresh and relevant today as they were in Regency England,” he said.

Written by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast, and Meghan Winch, and directed by Jane Austen specialist Robert Kelley, “The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged” distills the wit, romance and wisdom of Austen’s greatest works into a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud theatrical experience, according to ETC.

The production features actors Alyssa Anne Austin, Kyle T. Hester, and Kirsten Høj.

Director Kelley brings his expertise to the show, having directed five previous Jane Austen stage productions, including world premieres of the Paul Gordon musicals “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma.”

As artistic director emeritus of TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, Kelley directed some 175 productions during his career, culminating in the company’s receipt of the 2019 Regional Theatre Tony Award.

Ticket prices are $40-$104. All patrons 35 and under are always $35. Student tickets are $25. Single tickets are available through the ETC ticket office, 805-965-5400, or online at etcsb.org.