The first production of the Chemainus Theatre Festival’s 25th anniversary season is an adaptation of the timeless Jane Austen novel Pride and Prejudice.
Directed by Julie McIsaac and starring Yoshié Bancroft as the smart, shrewd and series Lizzie Bennet, and Brett Harris as the bachelor Mr. Darcy, the 1813 story is well loved for its memorable characters, ironic humour and dramatic themes.
“Its magic is spun from slow-dawning realizations and I hope you enjoy both its spark, and its enticing, enduring sweetness. There are all the questions of romance, morality, education, and marriage that keep perplexing us today, delivered in a way that is true to Austen’s charm and elegance,” says director Julie McIsaac.
Adapted by Jane Munsil, the play opened last Friday and runs until Mar. 25.
Other cast members include: Julie Casselman (Kitty Bennet), Kayla Dunbar (Mary Bennet, Erik Gow, (Mr. George Wickham) Brett Harris (Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy), Matthew Hendrickson (Mr. Collins/Mr. Gardiner), Melissa Morris (Jane Bennet/Georgiana Darcy), Caitriona Murphy (Mrs. Gardiner/Lady Catherine de Bourgh), Amy Lee Newman (Mrs. Bennet/Mrs. Reynolds), Paul Terry (Mr. Bennet), Chris Walters (Mr. Charles Bingley), and Lindsay Warnock (Lydia Bennet/Caroline Bingley.)
Creating the Regency period setting, the production team worked extensively to ensure that authenticity was considered in every way. From silks and laces to gilded set pieces, the ambiance is created by the design work of: Brian Ball, sets; Crystal Hanson, costumes; John Webber, lighting. Stage manager Anne Taylor and assistant stage manager Mel Watkins coordinate rotating scenes of grand balls, home life, and country walks. Adding to the atmosphere are musical interludes directed by Melissa Morris, and dance scenes choreographed by Kayla Dunbar, whose contribution recreates the social merriment of the period.
Tickets are available now at 1-800-565-7738 or chemainustheatre.ca.
