If you know the classic story of Pride and Prejudice, of Elizabeth Bennet, determined not to marry and Mr. Darcy, the handsome, rich and remarkably ubiquitous suitor, you will expect a story of class distinction, a mother anxious to make good marriages for her daughters and the prejudices this situation can create. But this is not that! The Gateway Theatre production of Pride & Prejudice, is a fresh, fast-paced adaptation of
Jane Austen’s classic novel by acclaimed playwright Kate Hamill. “It is an inventive take on a literary classic!”, described Barbara Tomasic, Executive Director of Gateway Theatre.
It borders on slapstick, Monty Python, and I Love Lucy, as the cast dramatizes their roles, and moves through two or three characters, frequently caught still dressing as they enter as another person.
Dance and gymnastics are helpful in playing these characters effectively, many throwing themselves into their roles! A gift for extreme dramatic effect helps the characters deliver lines, frequently spiced with innuendo and double entendres.
Directed by Scott Bellis, the cast is perfect for their many roles.
Kate Besworth is a lovely but outspoken Lizzy and Chris Walters is Mr. Darcy, the aloof, romantic man who is deeper and more understanding than Lizzy believes. Anita Wittenberg plays Mrs. Bennet, the scheming mother, exaggerating everything, alternately shrieking, crying, and praising, prostate in despair, or dancing with joy as well as becoming the slow moving servant, delivering tea in a monotone voice. Mr. Bennet, Greg–Armstrong Morris, effectively moves between the silent, stoic husband and resigned father of four daughters, to also play Charlotte, the girls’ dowdy but desperate friend. Rem Murray is delightful as the tall, ever hovering, clumsy Mary as well as the handsome Mr. Bingley. Also excellent in their roles as the two younger sisters are Jane, played by Merewyn Comeau, who also plays Miss de Bourgh and Melissa Oei is Lydia and Lady Catherine. Rounding out the cast, playing three quite diverse roles is Dylan Floyde, He is Wickham, Collins and Miss Bingley.
The cast is supported by a skilled creative team: Stage manager Victoria Snashall and assistant, Mandy Huang are joined by Lisa Goebel in charge of choreography and intimacy, Alaia Hamer and Sabrina Stace, designing the costumes for easy, quick on and off. The set, effectively based on four movable cushioned hassocks and a few pieces of furniture, is designed by Sophie Tang. Sound design and music arrangements are done by Lukas Vanderlip and Adam Henderson is dialect coach.
With fast-paced staging and almost seamless character switches, this production provides a hilarious and heartwarming frolic for long-time Jane Austen fans and newcomers alike. Don’t miss out on the wit, whimsy and romance – a highly entertaining tale for audiences twelve years of age and older.Known for her inventive and feminist take on literary classics, Hamill brings new life to Pride & Prejudice with a delightful reimagining that embraces the wit and social critique of Austen while making the story accessible to a modern audience with its screwball comedy and galloping pace. Pride and Prejudice runs to April 27 at the Gateway Theatre!
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