Review: Pride and Prejudice at the Bathhouse Theater
Last Saturday evening I was able to watch a performance of Pride and Prejudice, produced by the Seattle Public Theater as part of their youth drama program. This stage play, adapted by Don Fleming, was fast-paced (clocking in a little under one hour!) and charming. A great part of the charm was due to the enthusiasm of the young cast (ages 14-18), who rose to the challenge of learning several country dances and presenting dialogue almost word-for-word from the novel. Many scenes from the book had to be omitted, but those remaining flowed together well and the play provided a lively and satisfying abridgment of the story.
Elizabeth and Darcy did a fine job. The script did not allow the pair much time to develop the chemistry one enjoys in longer plays and films, but they handled their sparring scenes very well and delivered a cute ending. Other standout performances included Lydia — and how fun to watch a Lydia who really was about 15 — a Mr. Collins who made ample use of finger guns; a suitably oily Wickham; and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, who received lots of laughs from the audience.
I was reminded of a February post and discussion about whether Jane Austen is too difficult for middle-schoolers. Granted, this cast and their friends who made up most of the audience were older teens, but not much older. The actors had a great time and the audience laughed and applauded at all the right places. Judging from their reactions, an abridged play such as this would be a very appropriate and appealing introduction to Jane Austen.
