“A Wonderous Fever Dream” – Review of The Watsons by Holly Farmer

by Holly Farmer, Journalism MA (University of the West of England)

This eccentric play follows the completion of Jane Austen’s unfinished novel The Watsons by Laura Wade. Georgian lords and ladies flounder about a ball as newcomer Emma Watson (Ellie Carnaby) searches for a future husband. Emma faces the decision of whether to marry for status or love. Just when you foresee the plot, it turns on its head when the playwright (a fictional version of Laura Wade, played by Molly Watton Williams) writes herself in to save the story.

The characters are decked in intricate, colourful attire that distinguished each personality. Silk-like drapery decked the teal, blue walls of the stage. Regal golden candles, a golden chandelier and a chaise longue added the finishing touches to a beautifully portrayed Georgian world.

The character of Laura interjects the tale with a sparky 21st-century energy and relatability. She comically baffles the characters with her modern clothing and mobile phone and the meta reality of them merely being fictional characters.

Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s actors had rigorous attention to detail, with even just subtle mannerisms often getting roars of laughter. One stand-out performance was Lord Osbourne (Oscar Gough), who encapsulated a snivelling, wealthy lord from the moment he entered the stage with a single look. Each character was eccentric in their own way which only progressed in the second half. Defying the writer’s wishes, the play becomes a wonderous fever dream. I found myself fighting back tears of laughter.

For me, a big highlight was Laura’s more touching moments – detailing on the disparities of being a writer. She starkly cuts through the hilarity into deeply human moments, amplified by sound effects. Laura convincingly delivers the scene as if you’ve stepped into her subconscious: Molly Watton Williams is a truly dynamic actor.

From the detailed costuming, atmospheric lighting and props, to the eccentrically brilliant cast, this play challenges the status-quo of storytelling. It’s intricately hysterical, emotively captivating and an absolute must see! The Watsons runs at The Station until Saturday 22 March 2025. Book tickets at oldvic.ac.uk/events-shows.

Header image: Craig Fuller