Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the most eligible sister of them all?
In an uproarious reinterpretation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, this bold and comedic staging brings the iconic family drama to life in a setting as unexpected as it is delightful—the last surviving pub theatre in Australia. The play, set against the backdrop of a family teetering on the brink of financial ruin, centres on the age-old dilemma of marrying off daughters to wealthy suitors. Yet, in a fresh and dynamic twist, every character—rather than just the heroine, Elizabeth—takes centre stage in their own right.
This production’s brilliance lies in its ensemble cast, which delivers such an impeccable balance of humour and nuance that it’s nearly impossible to pick a standout performer. Each actor shines, feeding off the energy of the others in a masterful display of comedy and wit.
Special mention must go to AJ Evans, who plays the frenzied matriarch, Mrs. Bennet. His portrayal is a riotous blend of manic energy and unfiltered desperation, offering some of the evening’s most laugh-out-loud moments. Evans’ comedic timing, coupled with his ability to morph into a character consumed by a single-minded obsession with securing the daughters’ futures, steals the show.
The play’s minimalistic set allows the actors to shine, while clever costume changes and seamlessly executed scene transitions keep the action flowing without missing a beat. You can’t stop laughing and smiling through the performance as it takes you through formal dances, garden appreciation walks and many formal scenes with a reverie of a “bogan” country bumpkin family attempting to snare the big kahuna.
While the dreamy Mr. Darcy remains a figure of quiet earnestness, his stoic presence is overshadowed by the relentless charm of the surrounding characters. The play cleverly balances these serious moments with a playful irreverence that breathes new life into the familiar story. Even the stiffest of characters find their moments of absurdity in this delightful reimagining.
In the end, it’s happily ever after for everyone, bars Mary, the ugly duckling of the family, and it’s impossible not to leave the theatre grinning, still chuckling in a posh English accent. It’s a joyous, uproarious ride from start to finish—one that offers a new lens through which to enjoy a beloved classic.
To book tickets to Pride and Prejudice, please visit https://www.oldfitztheatre.com.au/pride-and-prejudice
Photographer: Phil Erbacher
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
