THEATRE – Pride and Prejudice (sort of*) is an adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic 1813 novel like no other; it’s outrageous, brilliant, witty, intelligent and incredibly funny, delivered by an all-female cast. It is touring from September 2026 till February 2027 at various venues in the UK. I’ve already got my ticket for the show!
I saw this performed at Newcastle Theatre Royal in 2024 and it is without a doubt one of the most entertaining performances I have seen. The world of Jane Austen is re-enacted by a raucous and irreverent female cast, just five of them playing multiple parts, male as well as female. They make poignant statements about the plight of women in the 1800s regarding marrying well, property and legal rights. And although it is not a musical, there is some singing and dancing. My sides actually hurt from laughing too much and the entire auditorium gave a standing ovation at the end. It won the Oliver Award in 2022 for the Best Comedy Play for Isobel McArthur and an Evening Standards Award too.
If you appreciate a bit of Austen and you want to be surprised by an alternative interpretation, then this gem is for you. Please check out the company’s website for more information; https://prideandprejudicesortof.com and note that the accompanying photo above is from the same company’s website. I am not affiliated with the company in any way – I am just a fan!
I did see another interpretation of Pride and Prejudice, a couple of years ago which was a version closer to the novel, which was performed by the Hotbuckle Theatre Company. This rendition was challenging as the entire story was delivered by three people, one male and two females, each playing numerous parts, with minimal scenery and a few well-chosen props. The mere quick switch of a top hat, bonnet, shawl or cravat denoted which character was playing which part. It was truly impressive how the three performers remembered all those lines word-perfectly, switching character whilst interacting with each other and delivering the drama. Although the actor, Tomas Mason, excelled himself as Mr Collins, bringing much humour to the role. Please check out their company’s website if you would like to know more about their latest drama productions; Home | hotbuckle or https://hotbuckle.co.uk
Please subscribe to my free newsletter to read more about how TV and film audiences are still influenced by Jane Austen and her Pride and Prejudice novel, from the recent BBC TV drama; The Other Bennet Girl or you may prefer Lily James in the 2016 film; Pride and Prejudice with Zombies!
If you are a Jane Austen fan or period drama aficionado, then get ready to check out Daisy Edgar-Jones (of Normal People fame) in the latest film, Sense and Sensibility to be released in the UK from 25th September 2026. It looks worth a gander even for the costumes, sets and scenery, let alone the highly anticipated wonderful acting by all concerned. See the trailers online or at your local cinema to help you make up your mind. Enjoy!
