Pride and Prejudice: A Modern Take on a Classic at Jermyn Street Theatre
Jane Austen's timeless masterpiece, *Pride and Prejudice*, needs no introduction. The captivating romance between Elizabeth Bennet and the brooding Mr. Darcy has enthralled audiences since its 1813 publication. The 1995 BBC adaptation, starring Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth, remains a definitive version, but the enduring appeal of this story has inspired numerous adaptations on both the big and small screen.
This new stage production, directed by Abigail Pickard Rice, presents a refreshingly stripped-down version of the classic tale, clocking in at a concise two and a half hours. The play instantly transports the audience to early 19th century Hertfordshire with the aid of well-placed props and atmospheric dry ice. The Bennet family, with their five daughters eager to make their mark in society, are brought to life with gusto. Mrs. Bennet (Sarah Gobran) is brimming with excitement over the arrival of a new tenant, Mr. Bingley, at the nearby Netherfield estate. Her ambitious goal: to secure the eligible bachelor as a son-in-law. Jane (April Hughes) swiftly captures Mr. Bingley's attention, but Mrs. Bennet despairs over her independent and spirited daughter Elizabeth, whose clashes with Mr. Darcy (Luke Barton), Mr. Bingley's close friend, create a foundation for a series of emotional entanglements.
The most remarkable aspect of this production is the versatility of the three-strong cast, who effortlessly inhabit thirteen different characters between them. A simple change of jacket or, in Luke Barton's case, a strategically placed hair bow signals a shift in identity. Barton's portrayal is further impressive when he switches seamlessly between the imperious Lady Catherine De Burgh, complete with a tiara, and the earnest Mr. Bennet. The cast's impeccable timing and teamwork create a truly seamless experience.
The BBC mini-series seems to have served as a template for the casting. Luke Barton is a striking resemblance to Colin Firth, while April Hughes bears a clear resemblance to Jennifer Ehle, both of which are advantageous given the enduring influence of the TV adaptation on the public's perception of these characters. The themes explored in the novel are still relevant today, influencing modern dramas like *Bridget Jones' Diary*, which serves as a thinly veiled tribute to *Pride and Prejudice*.
While the small cast handling multiple characters might be considered a weakness, with an additional member potentially easing the burden and making character transitions less frantic, the cast delivers a truly sparkling performance, showcasing their talent and crafting a production worthy of Jane Austen's genius. This is another triumph for the Jermyn Street Theatre, and we wouldn't expect anything less.
***
Four stars
Reviewed by: Brian Penn
*Pride & Prejudice
plays at Jermyn Street Theatre until 7 September. Further information can be found [here](https://jermynstreettheatre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173649193/events/428602212).
