Photo Credit: Mark Dean
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”
The famous first line of Jane Austen’s novel opens this stage adaptation of Pride and Prejudice by Guildford Shakespeare Company and the production keeps faithfully to the original text and story but with wonderful quirky twists.
All the parts are played by three actors in the most ingenious manner, which at times is so beautifully choreographed that it’s seamless to watch.
Photo Credit: Mark Dean
April Hughes plays our heroine Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Bingley – yes, that’s the kind of versatility we’re talking about here. She looks and acts every inch the part of what we’d expect from a young lady in a Jane Austen story yet when she puts Bingley’s jacket on she develops the swagger of a handsome man about town.
Indeed all three actors are incredibly versatile as they morph into each character with ease and great wit.
Photo Credit: Mark Dean
Luke Barton plays Mr Darcy with just the right amount of arrogant pride at the start that mellows and softens to become the hero we all love. But he’s also Mr Bennett, Mr Wickham, Mr Collins, and Mrs Reynolds and when he becomes Lady Catherine de Burgh it’s a highlight of the show. And the trick with the empty picture frame is not only very funny but a wonderful piece of stage craft.
Photo Credit: Mark Dean
Playing Jane Bennett, Mrs Bennett, Charlotte Lucas, Caroline Bingley and Mrs & Mrs Gardiner is Sarah Gobran. The gloriously over-dramatic Mrs Bennett is a gift of a part and Sarah attacks it with relish resulting in much of the comedy, especially in contrast to the bookish and mild-mannered Mr Bennett.
The whole production is so well done it’s an absolute delight for lovers of Austen or for those new to her world of polite afternoon callers, the excitement of dancing at balls with eligible young men and the importance of making the right marriage.
It also has one of the best curtain calls I’ve ever known. A joyous night at the theatre!
Pride and Prejudice is at the New Wolsey on Saturday 8th February at 7.30pm – book tickets Online or call the Box Office on 01473 295900
To find out more about the tour visit The Guildford Shakespeare Company Website
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