Katelyn Manfre and Jacob Yeh in NextStop Theatre’s ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Photo courtesy NextStop Theatre
Jane Austin’s iconic “Pride and Prejudice” is coming to the NextStop stage in an adaptation by award-winning author Kate Hamill. The adaptation looks through a modern lens at the intersections between love, marriage, and social status, with plenty of social commentary.
“Pride and Prejudice” explores the world of the out-spoken character Lizzy Bennet who seems determined to never marry even with societal pressures. When Mr. Darcy comes into her life, how will she respond to his presence?
“I particularly enjoy directing re-imagined classics,” said Megan Behm, who directs “Pride and Prejudice.” “It is one of my all-time favorite stories.
“Hamill’s script leans heavily into physical comedy and the absurdity of the ‘marriage market’ in the 19th century; this is a pretty wild, silly ride,” said Behm. “The cast and I are working very collaboratively together to build a world that blends Jane Austen's England with our modern day sensibilities. Many people have this idea that Jane Austen was very stuffy and prim and proper; nothing could be further from the truth.”
NextStop’s “Pride and Prejudice” is told by eight actors, many playing two or three different characters. Katelyn Manfre portrays Lizzy Bennet. “She is an icon. What I think has made her so lovable, is that she's the embodiment of modern ideals in a society that is steeped in stringent social dynamics. She is an optimist and a realist all at once.”
Mr. Darcy is portrayed by Jacob Yeh. “Actors always have to figure out how to play a character truthfully and rationally; you can't just play someone as ‘a jerk’ just because they are perceived as a jerk. You have to figure out what has happened to them to make them act in a way and perhaps, when seen from a different perspective, those ‘jerk’ actions can seem totally different.”
The character of “Darcy is a rich, proud, reticent, solemn man whose manner, as he describes them, isn't ‘for the liking of the world’ but is nonetheless a fiercely protective and local brother and friend. Despite himself, he ends up falling in love with Elizabeth Bennett … only to find that she despises him.”
“If you already love ‘Pride and Prejudice’ then come see this well-tread tale told through a new lens. I promise you'll enjoy it. If you don't already love ’Pride and Prejudice’, then come see this ridiculous, entertaining, heartwarming show. I promise you'll enjoy it,” added Manfre.
Where and When
NextStop Theatre presents “Pride and Prejudice” at 269 Sunset Park Drive, Herndon. Performances: Oct. 3 to 27, 2019. Thursday Oct. 3, 17 & 24 at 8 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5 & 19 at 8 p.m. and Saturday Oct 12 & 26 at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 6, 13 & 27 at 2 p.m. with Sunday performance Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Tickets: General Admission: $35-50* (NextStop strongly encourages booking in advance. Ticket prices increase as performances get nearer and fill up). For tickets, call 866-811-4111, or visit www.NextstopTheatre.org