The complex interactions of several families were sometimes hard to follow, but the emotions and performances rang true in a Reduxion Theatre production of Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility.”

From Austen’s 1811 novel, the production directed by Erin Woods, is updated to America’s East Coast in the present day. It was performed Thursday at Reduxion’s Broadway Theater, 1613 N Broadway Ave.

Contemporary costumes and a second act-opening dance scene done in period dress at a costume museum event, plus the intimacy of the theater space, partly overcame the nakedness of the bare stage.

Jennifer Wells was outstanding as Elinor Dashwood, one of three sisters forced to re-locate, with their stepmother, after their father’s death, in a plot device worthy of the opening of a public television series.

Lowkey and convincing, Wells got across Elinor’s desire to serve others — her family and children in low income art programs — then find romance if it comes her way, without compromising her integrity.

Ian Clinton was also understated, but touching as Edward Ferrars, who must clear away quite a few of his own obstacles, and seems just clueless enough about how to do so, before he is free to marry Elinor.

Offering a nice contrast was the performance of Rachael Barry as Marianne, Elinor’s less cheerful and even-tempered, but more romantic, passionate and easily disillusioned younger sister.

Barry conveyed Marianne’s stormy nature as she fell for the wrong man, Willoughby, well played by Timothy Berg, then the right one, Col. Michael Brandon, played with quiet panache by Tyler Woods.

Providing seasoning for the struggles of these principals were many of the supporting characters, played with considerable charm by members of the large cast, some of whom filled multiple parts.

Siobhan Morava was comically annoying as the superficially polite but self-serving Fanny, who inherits the Dashwood estate with her greedy, humorously henpecked husband, also played by Berg.

Paul James took “hale and hearty” to a new level as Jonathan Middleton, welcoming to the Berkshires with a booming voice his cousin, Mary Dashwood, played by Kris Schinske, and her daughters. Other assets include Elizabeth Ann Brooks as the hilariously exaggerated Mrs. Jennings, and Holly McNatt, as Lucy Steele, whose affections shift to Edward’s brother when his prospects look better.

Confusing at times, but coming together nicely, the play also benefited from musical and dance interludes, and from costumes designed by Stephanie Orr, assisted by Caitlin Yost and Amy Kercher.

Made more accessible by extensive program notes (including a multiple family tree), it is recommended in its remaining performances.

It will be staged at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, through May 26, with a matinee at 2 p.m. May 20. Admission is $17 for adults, and $13 for students, senior citizens and members of the military.

Call 651-3191 or visit the website at reduxiontheatre.com for information.

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