I absolutely loved studying Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ during my A-levels and then became a huge fan of the 1995 TV series which in my opinion did the book complete justice even if everyone did get distracted by the actor who played Darcy.

I must honestly admit that I could not comprehend or accept how another version, (a comedy they say) could possibly be recreated, and well at that; oh, how wrong I was! This extraordinarily witty version written by Isobel McArthur transports this Victorian story to the twenty first century whilst remaining true to the aesthetic qualities we so love from the time, the costumes, décor and mannerisms. The language has been carefully and hilariously adapted in parts, to make it relatable to these modern times.

A glorious exhibition of strong women, accompanied by loveable theatrics, music and dance had the audience moving in their seats.

As fans of the original, we think of the characters and the theme of love overriding pride and prejudice. However, we forget that the original story comprised of satire and how the varying dispositions of the original characters were honest representations of society and its etiquettes at the time.

From the outset the stage is as grand and dramatic as we would expect buildings to be from that period. Making full use of the height of this spectacular set, this show started with all eyes transfixed as the characters whip up the audiences into their introductions. From the get-go, the audience are not only laughing but participating in the production as we are often asked if we have a drink and are ready for the celebrations. The grand gestures and surprises continue throughout this production.

As the characters develop and come on and off stage, we the audience realise that this is an all singing, all dancing cast of just women! Does it take anything away from the production, not having any male characters? Not at all. The way in which these women have played their roles, has been absolutely astounding. Their swift, smooth and effortless transition between closet changes and roles of female and male parts was heavily applauded.

The costumes, the way in which the light on the sets was adapted to bring in new scenes or add atmosphere was carefully orchestrated.

This production has delivered on everything that you could possibly want and more from a modern humorous twist on a classic tale of love, societal pressures and norms. The hysterics start from the beginning and this high energy driven, singing and dancing creation has the audience either clapping or humming along to popular tunes, so aptly paired with the scenes from the Victorian era. The constant surprises from either the set, the character changes, song choices or even choice of language, leads the audience on a journey whereby we become invested in the tales of these colourful characters.

Note; even the quiet ones have an undeniable urge to burst out into song and dance!
‘Dr Martin boots meets Jane Austen’, is a great look for sure! This brilliant production has showcased how these classics can be adapted favourably if in the right hands. By having charismatic women playing the roles of all sexes this play has paid homage to the strong woman, Jane Austen who defiantly wrote the story about other strong women.

Emma Rose, Eleanor Kane, Rhianna McGreevy, Naomi Preston Law, and Christina Steel have given an outstanding and energetic performance, staying true to their characters with slight modern colloquial differences in parts!

If Isobel McArthur’s aim was to take the torch that Austen lit for women to be empowered by taking centre stage, being recognised in their own right and continuing this message through to our modern day, then she has delivered on all levels. A standing ovation was rightly deserved for these charismatic, women who had bought the Bennet sisters and their entire society to the modern times; unapologetically assertive, assured and direct. The singing, dancing and not to mention the facial expressions were pivotal in the setting of the mood on stage accompanied by the well-timed props.

This show is running until Saturday 8th February 2025 at the REP theatre in Birmingham. I highly recommended that you go and watch this whilst you can, as you will not be disappointed by this theatrical masterpiece.

As Ian Henery from ‘Best of Birmingham’ commented, this was what you call,
“A real theatre experience!”