I could seriously write pages upon pages of praise for Forte Musical Theatre Guild's Canadian debut of Austenatatious, running until this Saturday (March 13th) at the Engineered Air Theatre.

One look at the cast and sees a list of people that, if a single one was in a show, I would go see it. Anyone who is at all familiar with Calgary theatre knows the names Elinor Holt, Tory Doctor, Erin Breen, Onalea Gilberston, Ksenia Thurgood and David LaReaney. The only name on the cast that may not be familiar is Bryan Smith, who more than holds his own with the heavyweight cast.

The short synopsis – a small community theatre is putting on a play of Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice. That is, if the original included pirates, tap dancing, and a trip to New York. These changes are the idea of Emily (Gilbertson) who uses her... influence over director Dominic (LeReaney) to make constant changes. Jess (Holt) is a lifer in community theatre longing for the former director of the company. David (Doctor) has been dragged into the show by his girlfriend and Lauren (Breen) longs to be a star. Loveable stoner Blake (Smith) rounds out the cast. The amateurs stumble their way to opening night while stage manager Sam (Thurgood) tries to keep it all together. From audition to opening night, the audience is taken on a whirlwind that leaves them gasping for breath with laughter.

I won't say any more, for fear of spoiling the many twists, turns, and incredible highlights of Austentatious. I will instead simply state that if you love theatre, you need to see this show. Calgary is so blessed to have this type of talent gracing its stage, and for so many incredible performers to be appearing on one stage is truly something special. If you miss it, you truly missed out.