Irish castle steps back in time for Jane Austen biopic

A LAVISH ball from the late 18th century was recreated in an Irish castle last night for a multi-million euro movie telling the tale of author Jane Austen’s own life.

The ornate surroundings of Charleville Forest Castle in the midlands were taken over as a scene from the movie detailing the real-life love of a 19-year-old Austen for a roguish Irishman, Tom Lefroy, was shot.

Arts Minister John O’Donoghue took a step back in time as he visited the Co Offaly set of Becoming Jane, starring Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy, where 100 extras in period costume dress gathered to film the ballroom scene.