Pride and Prejudice On Perth Stage

THE TIMELESS love story from one of the most widely-read writers of all time takes to the Limelight Theatre stage in August 2014.

Adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Jon Jory, Pride and Prejudice features the wit and romance of the 1813 classic.

Elizabeth Bennet is a complex young woman who doesn’t think marriage is an urgent priority, despite her four sisters, overzealous matchmaking mother and a string of unsuitable suitors.

When she meets Mr Darcy, she’s sure she despises him – but after numerous battles of wits, she finds her entire world upside down as the enigmatic man seems more and more appealing.

Director Elinor King describes Pride and Prejudice as the original romantic comedy.

“Boy meets girl and they dislike each other immediately but over the course of a year they realise just how wrong first impressions can be,” she said.

“Even though it’s set in the 19th century, it’s a timeless tale that’s just as relevant today as it was in 1813.

“I have loved Pride and Prejudice ever since watching the BBC version as child and have always wanted to see it on stage.

“Although there are plenty of talented female actresses in Perth, there don’t seem to be a lot of shows with strong roles for younger women so I decided to change that.”

Involved in theatre for the past six years, King has worked extensively with Sydney’s Strathfield Musical Society, Stage Left Theatre and Goldfield Repertory Club in Kalgoorlie and Limelight, Marloo and Phoenix Theatres in Perth.

With Pride and Prejudice, King faces a few challenges given there are no scene changes.

“All changes of set have to occur during the action,” she said. “This calls for some extremely complex movement of the actors at the right times.

“The cast have to perform seven different regency dances during the ball scenes which, while requiring effort and concentration, has been fun for everyone to learn.

“It’s also challenging keeping the story fresh and interesting for new audiences while still remaining true to the original novel – especially considering it’s one people know and love.”

Pride and Prejudice plays at 8pm August 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23. Tickets are

$21, $18 concession and $16 children – book on 9571 8591 between 9am and midday, Monday to Friday, or at www.limelighttheatre.com.

Limelight Theatre is located on Civic Drive, Wanneroo.

Images: Elizabeth Bennet (Natasha Stiven) with the housekeeper (Bev Bennett, left) and Lady Catherine (Lynda Hunt) & the Bennet sisters: Mary (Kayla MacGillivray), Jane (Beth Tremlett), Elizabeth (Natasha Stiven) [at back), Lydia (Emily Smith) and Kitty (Lauren Kingham [at front] in Pride and Prejudice.

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