'Jane Austen Speaks' April 8 at Norris Cultural Arts Center

Actress Debra Miller will appear as Jane Austen in a one-woman show, "Jane Austen Speaks," at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 8, in the gallery of the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles.

Miller, who last year portrayed Mary Todd Lincoln in a Norris gallery performance, specializes in recreating historical and literary luminaries. She returns in the character of early 19th century British novelist Jane Austen, whose novels continue to achieve popularity and new readers 200 years after their original publication.

For tickets, call (630) 584-7200 or visit www.NorrisCulturalArts.com and follow the links to online ticketing.

Suitable for all ages, the program appeals to both the casual reader of Austen's novels and the most devoted "Janeite." By the end of the presentation, the audience will know more about Jane Austen the woman, as well as the author. The presentation will be followed by a question and answer period.

Describing the program, Miller said, "Jane Austen visits you from the autumn of 1815. Her first three novels, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park are published, and Emma is complete. Jane visits with you at this, the most vibrant and hopeful time of her life. Drawing from her letters, juvenilia, and novels, this one-hour performance delves into the personal life of one of the most beloved and intriguing novelists of the 19th century."

She continued, "Jane Austen speaks about her childhood in Steventon, her brothers and beloved sister Cassandra and her writing. Learn about her exotic cousin Eliza, her mentor and friend Madame LeFroy and the loves and losses that shaped her life and informed her perception of the world."

The Norris Cultural Arts Center is located at 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles, on the Norris campus which also includes St. Charles East High School.