A STAGE adaptation of one of Jane Austen’s most popular creations is coming to Basingstoke’s Central Studio next weekend.

Heartbreak Productions is bringing its version of Emma, complete with picnics, parties and posh frocks, to the Queen Mary’s College venue for one night on March 7.

Adapted by Peter Mimmack and David Kerby-Kendall and directed by Mimmack, the heart-warming Austen classic follows its clever, rich and slightly spoiled eponymous heroine as she throws herself into the perils of mis-matchmaking.

Mimmack said: “As I researched the book, I began to realise what was so special about Jane Austen: the beautifully drawn characters are unparalleled in literature.

“It was a specific scene from the novel where Emma draws her friend Harriet that led to my idea of creating a device to frame and tell the story from the perception of artists of the day.

“There is something about how art relates to society.

“It appears to have a leisurely nature, and, although rather elegant in execution, it can provoke debate about all points of society and in this case, a society at the heart of the novel.”

The production features live music, dance and audience interaction.

Tickets cost £10 full-price, £7.50 concessions and £6 for children and students.

To book your tickets call the box office, on 01256 418318, or go online at centralstudio.co.uk.