By Laura Barfield

Special to The Mirror

Looking for something to do on a chilly autumn day? Cozy up and enjoy Michael Bloom’s adaptation of Jane Austin’s classic, “Emma.”

After one success as a matchmaker, Emma Woodhouse is convinced her keen senses — and scheming — will result in more happy marriages. Ironically, she imagines her own future as an independent woman with no need for a man. In this comedy of errors, everyone in Emma’s path challenges her beliefs. Written more than 200 years ago, Jane Austin’s well-crafted plot and witty dialogue have stood the test of time and remain a delight today.

Once again, the actors at Centerstage shine. Sparse sets serve to highlight their outstanding performances. Energetic Lesley Gordon, who plays the scheming Emma, carries the show. Her counterbalance, the older and wiser George Knightly, is played perfectly by Ben Symons. Rylie Lathem, Harriet, and Shelleigh Ferguson, Miss Bates, steal each scene they are in with their mastery of the comedic genre.

A champion for small businesses, Centerstage sells cocktails in their lobby made with spirits from family-owned Blackfish Spirits Distillery. They are also selling packages of tea made by local, Tea Madame. Centerstage Theatre is a small business, too. So if you enjoy live entertainment, you should support them and see a show. It you don’t have time this month, their season includes “Sleeping Beauty — A Holiday Panto,” Agatha Christie’s “Spider’s Web,” “First Date—the Musical,” and “Ten Acrobats in an Amazing Leap of Faith.”

Centerstage Theatre is located in Federal Way just minutes off I-5. “Emma” runs through October 29. Tickets can be purchased at Centerstagetheatre.com.

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Laura Barfield writes children’s books and is a real estate appraiser. She also has a background in both acting and directing. When she’s not writing, she can be found strolling one of the beautiful trails in the Seattle area with her husband and labradoodle.