JOYOUS, poignant, lively and very funny.

I never thought I'd use all those adjectives about a Jane Austen adaptation on stage.

But Theatre6, currently on a UK tour, have brought their stylish production to Liverpool with all these admirable attributes in tow.

The six-strong cast play a variety of instruments and look as though they are relishing every storytelling technique at their disposal.

I shall look at umbrellas in a whole new light after this.

The set, by Charlotte Cooke, features elegant vine coated pillars and a ramp.

We are transported from living rooms to countryside in Bath – complimented by very artistic lighting and clever sound effects.

Director Kate McGregor keeps the two-and-a-quarter-hour (including interval) period play with music moving along at a very breezy and balanced pace.

Ceri-Lyn Cissone is super as our heroine Anne displaying all the stirring emotions of a young woman losing the love of her life in the spring of 1815.

Eight years after, she still cannot escape the pain of her decision - one that saps her very being.

Her facial expressions reflect her Cinderella-like character's regrets, sadness and ultimate happiness.

A very convincing, charming performance from Ceri-Lyn with some beautiful piano playing, too.

Wirral's Mathew Atkins had a lot on his hands, including the violin.

He has to age before our eyes as Mr Walter and three other very different personalities.

It is a happy home-coming for the former Mosslands School pupil.

Jason Hall also gave two suitably strong interpretations of the once poor Naval officer Wentworth and the well off suitor Mr Elliott.

Lucinda Turner as Lady Russell, Mary and Mrs Clay also provides clarinet support.

Indigo Griffiths and Siobhan Gerrard also playing multi-roles complte a very accomplished cast who work so well together since they started on the road in April.

The music from Maria Haik Escudero is played with various degrees of sensitivity from the actors who deftly take instruments hanging from the pillars.

A white piano is a crucial part of the story highlighted in a subtle yet powerful concert recital.

If you like your Jane Austen made accessible then I hope this review persuades you to see this warm and inviting stage version of the author's final novel.

Delightful - four stars.

The production is on until this Saturday (October 13).

Tickets are from the box office on 0151 709 4776.