Debra Ann Miller to livestream Jane Austen portrayal for Steel Beam Theatre benefit

Steel Beam Theatre in downtown St. Charles will showcase the life of author Jane Austen at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 31, to cap its series of livestreaming benefit performances for the 20-year-old, nonprofit theater.

The series continues the successful, but abbreviated, 19th season themed “Women of Steel.”

In “Just Jane,” Jane Austen visits you from the autumn of 1815, a news release stated. Her first three novels, “Sense and Sensibility,” “Pride and Prejudice” and “Mansfield Park,” are published, and “Emma” is complete. Austen is portrayed at the most vibrant and hopeful time of her life.

Drawing from her letters, juvenilia, and novels, the 45-minute performance delves into the personal life of one of the most beloved and intriguing novelists of the 19th century. The guest artist is Debra Ann Miller, a professional actress, vocalist and voice-over talent with more than 30 years of experience as a performer for live audiences, television and film.

For the series of one-night-only performances, the artists agreed to waive their usual fees so that any ticket revenue could be used to support the theater’s mission for a 20th season, according to the release.

“This unique streaming format enables us to continue to provide theatrical entertainment to our community and to people who can access these online,” Marge Uhlarik-Boller, artistic director of Steel Beam Theatre, stated in a news release.

Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased until 6:45 p.m. Jan. 31 by visiting www.steelbeamtheatre.com. Participants will receive an online link prior to the performance, along with instructions for viewing. Internet access is required. For more information, call 630-587-8521.