Oklahoma Shakespeare presents Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is a literary classic.
Presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park, local playwright Erin Woods’ fast-paced adaptation maintains most of the dazzling dialogue, memorable characters and lively romance of Austen’s Regency-era comedy of manners and matrimony.
With nighttime performances continuing through Oct. 3, “Pride and Prejudice” is the second show Oklahoma Shakespeare is performing in its new outdoor venue, the Shakespeare Gardens, in the Paseo Arts District.
In keeping with the story’s themes, Alissa Mortimer, an associate drama professor at the University of Oklahoma, directs the mostly college-age cast. Many of the performers show promise, although more than one stumbled a few too many times over Austen’s keenly crafted dialogue at the Sept. 17 show.
A 2020 OU graduate, Bianca Bulgarelli stars as Elizabeth Bennet, the smart, stubborn and beguiling second of five unmarried daughters of Mr. Bennet (Michael Page), a country gentleman of status, intelligence and big heart but little means.
The family’s shrill yet well-meaning matriarch, Mrs. Bennet (the hilarious Elizabeth Ann Townsend), is desperate to marry off her daughters to wealthy gentlemen.
Just such a gentleman comes on the scene when the charming and rich Mr. Bingley (Nick Hone) takes up residence at a nearby manor and seems to take a shine to Jane Bennet (Kirby Dixon Crosbie), Elizabeth’s shy and lovely older sister, who is smitten in return.
Although it’s still a work in progress, Oklahoma Shakespeare’s new outdoor venue already makes a pleasant spot to spread a blanket (or pull up a chair, whichever suits your fancy) and pass an autumnal evening with Austen’s beloved romantic comedy.