PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

This adaptation by Brian J Burton of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice was delightful. Jane Austen narrating throughout, spoke with clarity and portrayed her character well. 

We meet the Bennet family. Mr Bennet, a kind and caring man, slightly despairing of his wife.Mrs Bennet, who would marry any of her 5 daughters off at the drop of a hat, regardless of the status of the suitor. Jane Bennet in love with Charles Bingley, although he takes some time to decide tosettle down. Mary Bennet, always with her head in a book with no thoughts of marriage. Kitty Bennet, a giggly 16 year old, wanting love and eloping with George Wickham. Lydia Bennet, the giggling side kick (to Kitty)also wanting marriage. Finally Elizabeth Bennet, fighting for equality and refusing tobeforced into a marriage for money. 

So the story of love and marriage begins. Mrs Bennet goes through all emotions, from tears to happiness with worry as well when Jane is taken ill. She played this character well with gabbling excitement of any wedding for one of her daughters. 

Charles Bingley was played well with his personality showing through in the characterization. 

Fitzwilliam Darcy, a proud and arrogant man eventually admits his feelings for Elizabeth and they agree to marry. 

Lady Catherine de Bourgh was played well with an air of formidable snobbery and disapproval. 

One or two cast members words were lost when they spoke,as they forgot to speak to the audience and spoke to their cast colleagues on stage. I would have liked stronger performances from some characters, bringing out more personality or arrogance as the roles dictate. 

The set was accurate for the era with 2 lovely chaise longues for cast to sit on. The costumes were authentic and the ladies hair looked fabulous. Overall a good performance which the audience enjoyed with some unexpected laughter. An enjoyable evening of entertainment. Thank you for inviting me.

 

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