Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of)
Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) has arrived in all its Georgian-style glory (*sort of) at Buxton Opera House. This Chelmsford Theatre production of Isobel McArthur’s brilliantly inventive adaptation brings Jane Austen’s beloved classic to life with a wonderfully modern and utterly hilarious twist.
The story is told by five servants, who take on the roles of Austen’s much-loved characters, seamlessly switching between parts with remarkable speed and impeccable comedic timing. What could easily become confusing is instead one of the production’s greatest strengths, with each performer creating a host of distinctive characters through subtle changes in voice, mannerisms and costume.
McArthur’s script cleverly intertwines Austen’s original wit and familiar story with contemporary humour, outrageous language and plenty of knowing references, creating something that feels both faithful to the beloved novel and completely fresh. The familiar plot remains at its heart, with love, misunderstandings, social expectations and, of course, the ever-complicated relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy, but it is presented in a way that feels wonderfully accessible to a modern audience.
The immensely talented all female cast deserve huge credit for the sheer pace and energy they bring to the production. With only simple costume changes and a few carefully chosen props, they transform from one character into another almost instantaneously. The precision of the performances is particularly impressive, with the cast working together seamlessly and never missing a beat. Their chemistry and enthusiasm are infectious, drawing the audience into the chaos and comedy from the very beginning.
And then there is the music. Forget the traditional Georgian soundscape, because this Pride and Prejudice comes complete with a soundtrack of brilliantly unexpected modern hits, including Lady in Red, You’re So Vain and Girls Just Want to Have Fun. The songs are woven into the story with such confidence and comic flair that they feel completely at home within this wonderfully unconventional adaptation.
Visually, the production embraces its simplicity, allowing the performers and the script to remain firmly at centre stage. The result is a show that feels energetic, inventive and effortlessly entertaining. There is a real sense of joy running throughout the performance, and it is impossible not to be swept along by the cast’s enthusiasm.
This is Pride and Prejudice as you have never seen it before: cheeky, chaotic, brilliantly staged and packed with laugh-out-loud moments. Whether you are a devoted Austen fan or simply looking for an evening of great comedy and entertainment, this production is an absolute delight. A hugely enjoyable and wonderfully bonkers take on a timeless classic that had the audience laughing from beginning to end.
Playing until Saturday 10th October, this is one you won’t want to miss!
Energetic, inventive and effortlessly entertaining ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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