Backstage of Sense and Sensibility

Hello, young lovers! The Chicago Shakespeare Theatre is all about romance this month as they debut a world premiere musical based off of Jane Austen’s intimate love story Sense and Sensibility. And at the heart of the sweet story—don’t worry, we won’t judge you if you’ve only pretended to read the book—are veteran actresses Megan McGinnis and Sharon Rietkerk. Megan’s portrayl of the hopeless romantic Marianne and Sharon’s more straight-laced Elinor give composer Paul Gordon’s stunning score life and lyricism—and chemistry to boot! Playing the opposites-attract Dashwood sisters as they navigate the throes of love (and passion!) in the show has been an easy transformation as the two actresses have shared the stage as siblings in the past. “It’s easy playing the sister to this one,” Sharon says of working with Megan, ”And the best part? There’s no drama!”