by Mike Gibb and Kevin Walsh

JAN 25, 26, FEB 1, 2, *3, 8, 9, *10 | 2013
THU, FRI & SAT 8:00pm • SUN *2:00pm

photos by SUSAN J ROCHE | Click on thumbnail to see larger image

A US Premiere! Sponsored by the St. Andrew’s Society of Jacksonville

SCOTTISH MUSICAL PLAY | Robert Burns and Edinburgh beauty, Agnes (Nancy) McLehose conducted a passionate love affair that gave rise to a famous series of letters written under the pen names Clarinda and Sylvander. At the age of 72, in her journal, under the date 6th December 1831 – 40 years to the day after they last met – she wrote ”This day I never can forget. Parted with Burns, in the year 1791, never more to meet in this world, Oh may we meet in Heaven.” “Clarinda” sees the events and relationships she was involved in from Nancy’s perspective. Witty, courageous, flirtatious and coy in turns, she was in many ways untypical of her period. Though almost 200 years have passed, Nancy’s story remains as relevant today as it did then.

REVIEW

Dick Kerekes & Leisla Sansom, EU JACKSONVILLE: “ABET’s production of “Clarinda” is a real treat for Jacksonville audiences, with a superb cast, excellent direction by Rob Taylor, and music to delight the ear combined in a fascinating two hours of pure entertainment.. David Paul is masterful in his portrayal of Burns.. Kate Powell.. is a fine actress, well cast in a role that requires sensitivity and skill.. Leanne Elizabeth Brereton.. is delightful as Burn’s wife and the mother of a number of his children.. You are going to love the music.”  READ FULL REVIEW

directed by ROB TAYLOR
musical direction by AARON MARSHALL

and starring
KATE POWELL as Nancy McLehose (Clarinda)
DAVID PAUL as Robert Burns
LEA BRERETON as Jean Armour (Burns)
DAVID JON DAVIS as James McLehose and Gavin Hamilton
ISABEL DONDERO as Jenny Clow