Pride and Prejuicide *Sort of is a hilarious homage to Austen romanic classic.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that everyone loves a Jane Austen adaptation. There have been countless remakes, rewrites and everything in between inspired by Austen’s work. In this onstage celebration of Pride and Prejudice, the classic story is told in a uniquely comical way.
The all-female downstairs staff at Longbourn take on every role, recreating the story of Elizabeth and Darcy for the audience. The staff painstakingly recreate every aspect of the story, with all the quick changes and added well-known songs dotted about. The song modernises Austen’s novel by bringing in modern hindsight matched with the familiar satire that was infamous in the original text.
Directors Isobel McArthur and Simon Harvey use McArther’s script to create a hilarious show that will keep you entertained from start to finish. The minimalist set utilises props and sets pieces to maximum effect, from the almost constant karaoke box that leads the way to the show’s musical numbers to the empty chair and newspaper that replaces the need for a Mr Bennett.
The cast was phenomenal throughout, performing multiple parts throughout the duration of the show. RUTH BROTHERTON played Elizabeth Bennett with the charm you would aspect from a 00s romcom lead. DANNIE HARRIS took the part of both the brooding Mr Darcy and the overbearing Mrs Bennett, showcasing her range. LEAH JAMIESON stole every scene with her onstage presence, her roles as Mr Collins and Mary Bennett were clear audience favourites. LUCY GRAY and MEGAN LOUISE WILSON had amazing chemistry as Bingley and Jane, which matched perfectly with the over-the-top energy of the whole cast. LAURA SOPER portrayed Charlotte as a young woman in love with her best friend, Elizabeth. The focus on this aspect of their relationship brought the show’s more modern changes to the forefront.
PRIDE & PREJUDICE* (*SORT OF) will be at the New Theatre in Cardiff through to Saturday 25th March. Performances are at 7:30pm with a 2:30pm matinee on Wednesday and Saturday. For more details and to book tickets, go HERE.