“an excellently executed, hilarious and side-splitting bit of nonsense to create tears of joy, all much-needed. Pure entertainment has real worth.”  Otago Daily Times 2023

Before Penny Ashton’s Sense & Sensibility and Promise & Promiscuity there was Austen Found. Born in Wellington’s NZ Improv Festival in 2008, this best-selling completely improvised Austenian musical started it all. And in 2026 she is beyond excited to be bringing her original partner in bonnets; founder of the Improvisers, star of LOTR and M3GAN; Lori Dungey along for the carriage ride. As well as Mr Twinkle Fingers Jamie Burgess, who will be providing the improvised soundtrack to all the Regency shenanigans. And all on Jane Austen’s 251st Birthday. Hoorah!

Addicted to Darcy?  Easily Persuaded? Bonkers for Big Balls?  Aren’t we all! Join Ashton (Olive Copperbottom, The Tempestuous), Dungey (The Dinner) and Burgess, as they swoon, romp, and pianoforte their way through Austen’s world. Charming suitors, meddlesome mothers and surprisingly well-educated girls will all paint a vivid picture in song, dance and passionate handholding.  

Complete sell out Wellington Improv Fest, Adelaide Fringe and NZ International Comedy Fest. 

Reviews:
“Penny Ashton and Lori Dungey – two excellent improvisers who know what they’re doing.” Dominion Post 2021
“Austen Found is a superbly well-developed, outstanding triumph!” –  Theatreview 2023
“What I did not prepare myself for was just how outstanding the production would be. In all honesty I am still in some disbelief that the several players on stage improvised such brilliance on the spot.”  – NZ Entertainment Blog 2019

Starring Penny Ashton, Lori Dungey and Jamie Burgess

Wed 18 Nov – Sun 21 Dec
Tues – Sat 7.30pm, Sun 4.30pm
Preview Night Tuesday 17 November – Fundraising for Pet Refuge
Sunday Special – 22 November
Choose Your Price Night – Tuesday 24 November
Q&A Night – Wednesday 16 December 
CIRCA TWO
$25 – $45

Join us in your own regency costume for Jane Austen’s birthday on December 16th for cake and a special Q&A with the cast.

Preview Fundraiser for Pet Refuge. 50% of profits and merch will go to helping women house their pets when escaping domestic violence.

Audience Care: PG 14. Includes innuendo.
Duration: 75 minutes no interval