Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review
McArthur’s brilliant vision infuses a familiar tale with fresh energy, as it is brought to life by an outstanding all-female cast of five. Each performer seamlessly switches between multiple roles, often within seconds, showcasing their remarkable talent. The infectious joy of this production draws you in instantly and you can't help but smile as you are swept into its delightful embrace.
The clever placement of music throughout adds yet another layer of depth to the production. With microphones artfully hidden around the set and nestled within props, the cast delivers cracking vocals and harmonies that elevate the performance. The grand finale features a riotous rendition of 'Young Heart Run Free' leaves the audience soaring back into the real world on an exhilarating high.
Whether you are already familiar with the source material or stepping in for the first time, you are guaranteed to enjoy this show. It is a fizzing delight that packs in so much fun over the course of just over two hours. Filled with laughter and memorable songs, you leave feeling uplifted and eager to experience it all over again. A perfectly delivered production.
Isobel McArthur's joyous reinvention of Jane Austen's beloved Pride and Prejudice continues to enchant audiences across the UK on a nationwide tour. This sparkling production, which swept the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, truly deserves all the acclaim it has received!
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| Photo by Mihaela Bodlovic |
McArthur’s brilliant vision infuses a familiar tale with fresh energy, as it is brought to life by an outstanding all-female cast of five. Each performer seamlessly switches between multiple roles, often within seconds, showcasing their remarkable talent. The infectious joy of this production draws you in instantly and you can't help but smile as you are swept into its delightful embrace.
This is far from the traditional re-telling of the Austen story, although all the elements of that story are here, but instead this production is packed full with witty innuendos, catchy songs, and cheeky swearing—that breathe new life into the classic narrative. The humour flows freely and is delivered with such finesse that even the briefest glance can elicit a hearty laugh.
From the very start, Ana Inés Jabares-Pita's impressive set design captivates with a grand staircase and period wallpaper that sets the perfect stage. The scene is then set as the company begin in the audience, mingling and dusting while donned in marigolds, instantly immersing everyone in the Regency era. We initially meet the cast as servants who then end up telling the story, thus giving us a clever discussion about the often-overlooked servants and their quest for a happy ending.
The design by Jabares-Pita’s set transforms into a playful playground that enhances the story’s unfolding. The clever use of entrances and exits assists in the swift exchanges of roles, while stunning period costumes add depth and distinction to each character. Colin Grenfell’s lighting design expertly sets the tone of every scene, shifting from moments of uplifting joy to poignant seriousness with a fantastic colour palette.
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| Emma Rose Creaner, Rhianna McGreevy and Christine Steel. Photo by Mihaela Bodlovic |
The five extraordinary performers elevate this adaptation to new heights. Naomi Preston Low is a standout as Elizabeth Bennet, portraying her with a punchy heart that carries the developing romance with Mr. Darcy beautifully. Preston Low magnificently navigates the emotions of the role. Rhianna McGreevy offers a masterclass in versatility as she toggles between the exuberant Mrs. Bennet and the stoic Darcy, her larger-than-life expressions bringing each character to vivid life. There's a tremendous scene where she plays Darcy as portrait that has the audiences in complete stitches of laughter.
Christine Steel shines as Jane, forming an immediate connection through her gentle portrayal. Her transition into the formidable ‘Lady In Red’ Lady Catherine is superbly imagined. Emma Rose Creaner is nothing short of a joy on stage throughout, effortlessly embodying characters like the earnest Charlotte Lucas and the sneering Bingley's.
Eleanor Kane’s comedic timing is magnificent; her portrayal of Lydia Bennet is delightful, as is her larger-than-life Mr. Collins. Kane showcases her impressive ability in comedic moments that punctuate the performance.
The skill of the five performers in this production is truly impressive and is what makes it such an outstanding experience to witness. Their engaging presence and the way they infuse their own expressive fun into every moment is simply brilliant. It is clear the cast have made a strong bond together whilst on the tour, this gives an ease and a sense of calm playfulness to each performance. This instantly relaxes you as an audience member and keeps you engaged throughout.
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| Naomi Preston Low, Emma Rose Creaner and Christine Steel. Photo by Mihaela Bodlovic |
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Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of) plays at Lichfield's Garrick Theatre until Saturday 17th May 2025. Tickets are available from https://www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/pride-and-prejudice-sort-of
The tour then visits Watford Palace Theatre (19th-24th May), Leeds Grand Theatre (26th-31st May), Exeter's Northcott Theatre (3rd-7rd June) and Southampton's Mayflower Theatre (10th-14th June). To find out more visit https://prideandprejudicesortof.com/
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