IMAGINE Jane Austen simply reappeared and then went on a tour of local theatres talking about her life and tomes in her own words.

This is the premise for What Would Jane Say? – Trisha Lewis’s one-woman show which comes to the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage on February 28.

The popular show is written by Dorset playwright Peter John Cooper and consists of something approaching 90 per cent Jane Austen’s own words culled from her letters to her sister Cassandra and her novels.

There are only minor adjustments to include 21st century references and personalities in place of the equivalent minor celebrities that Jane herself mixed with at the many balls and dinners she attended.

Peter said: “The inclusion of so many of Austen’s own words along with the acting skills and personality of Trisha Lewis leave you feeling that Jane Austen was actually there.

“This is a warm, humourous and thought-provoking production and it is extraordinary that many observations and references seem so relevant all these years later. ‘Janeites’ will enjoy showing off their knowledge and those completely unversed in the writings or the life story of this author will feel more inclined to read and learn more.”

What Would Jane Say? received a standing ovation on its premier at The Regent Centre in Christchurch. Trisha Lewis is a Bournemouth based actress with an enormous range of professional work to her credit.

She is extremely well-known for her work across the south and over the years has specialised in single-handed portrayals of strong and quirky women such as Joyce Grenfell, Mary Wollstonecraft and Virginia Woolf.

As well as her theatre work she is respected throughout the region for her specialist work in reminiscence drama for elderly people.

The performance at the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage is on February 28 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10 plus concessions from the box office on 01929 422239.