pride cast

Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)

Malvern Theatres

*****

This spoof of Jane Austen’s favourite novel is massively entertaining: the romantic and elegant humour of her original novel is re-enacted in a style that makes it very accessible to a modern and youthful audience.

The ensemble cast of five talented and comically gifted actresses playing multiple roles in heightened style, swapping costumes and roles in quickfire tempo, is brilliant. In the theatrical manner of productions popularised by the Reduced Shakespeare Company, the plot is well covered.

The juxtaposition of nineteenth century elegance and decorum with coarse twentieth century language and cultural elements such as karaoke adds surprise and humour.

Familiarity with Jane Austen’s original plot and characters is helpful. Mrs Bennet is the hysterical mother of five unmarried daughters. If none of them marries, their home and future are lost. The arrival in their village of two handsome bachelors arouses her excitement, and indeed her daughters’ too. Jane, the eldest daughter and Mr Bingley appear to be getting close.

However, Elizabeth, the vivacious and outspoken second daughter, takes a dislike to his haughty and rich friend, Mr Darcy, who chooses to dissuade Bingley from getting engaged to Jane. The Reverend Collins, a pompous and sycophantic minister, who will inherit the Bennett’s home if none of the Bennet daughters marries, tries clumsily and unsuccessfully to win the hand of Elizabeth. She is more impressed with the outwardly dashing soldier, George Wickham.

On this foundation the story develops. This story is enacted for us by the five imagined servants in the Bennet household. The pace of the production, the imposing set which creates a sense of the period with the grand sweeping staircase, the clever use of props, the creative lighting plot, the song and dance routines all contribute to a hilarious rendition of the characters and the story. The costumes are likewise very well designed: Lady Catherine’s outfit makes a wonderful impact.

The cast, led by Naomi Preston Low as Elizabeth, are hugely talented and entertaining; the teamwork and timing work beautifully.

The inventive devices used to portray the character of Mr Bennet and the visit to Pemberley are very clever, witty and brilliantly timed. There are moments when silence is used poignantly and comically. The mixture of accents is also entertaining. The deliberate conduct and language of the genteel characters of Jane Austen’s world are interpreted by actors who are thoroughly modern in their manners and exaggerated in their expressions; this all adds to the hilarity.

This excellent and colourful production is written and directed by Isobel McArthur. There is a great sense of a well-knit team enjoying themselves and providing outstanding theatre.

Pride and Prejudice *(*sort of) runs In Malvern till Saturday 25th January.

Tim Crow

21-01-25 

Index page Malvern Reviews A-Z Reviews by Theatre