REVIEW - PRIDE & PREJUDICE* (*SORT OF) | THE LOWRY | 18/03/2025

There have been countless adaptations of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, but few dare to shake up the formula quite like Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of). This isn’t your traditional period drama—it’s a wild, witty, and wonderfully irreverent reinvention that throws the Bennet sisters headfirst into the 21st century. Written and directed by Isobel McArthur, this award-winning production first debuted at Glasgow’s Tron Theatre in 2018 before making its way to the West End and beyond. Now on its latest UK tour, it brings Austen’s world to life with karaoke, comedy, and a fresh, feminist edge that had The Lowry audience in stitches.

At its heart, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) follows the same beloved tale of Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, societal pressures, and class expectations while clashing with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. However, what sets this adaptation apart is its bold and unconventional approach to storytelling. Instead of a traditional retelling, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of the unseen servants—women who would typically be relegated to the background in Austen’s world. These maids, however, refuse to stay in the shadows, stepping into the spotlight to reenact the events of Pride and Prejudice with a mischievous, knowing wink.

Their perspective brings a fresh, often irreverent spin to the classic novel, poking fun at the absurdity of rigid social customs while embracing the romance and drama that make Austen’s story so enduring. The script seamlessly blends the familiar beats of the original plot with a modern, self-aware twist, ensuring that even those who know Pride and Prejudice inside out will find plenty of surprises. Anachronisms abound, with pop culture references, cheeky nods to the audience, and unexpected comedic moments that breathe new life into well-known scenes. Whether it’s a boisterous take on a ballroom dance or a hilariously exaggerated marriage proposal, the show finds inventive ways to inject humour without losing sight of the emotional core of the story.

While much of the production leans into comedy, there are also moments of genuine warmth and tenderness. Elizabeth and Darcy’s sparring retains its electric charm, and the themes of love, independence, and societal constraints remain as relevant as ever. The balance between satire and sincerity is one of the show’s greatest strengths, making Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) not just a parody, but a heartfelt celebration of Austen’s masterpiece.

Ana Inés Jabares-Pita’s set design is deceptively simple yet highly effective. A grand Georgian staircase dominates the stage, allowing for dynamic movement and quick transitions between locations. A handful of well-placed props, from candleholders to a Pringles tube, add a playful touch while subtly establishing each new setting. The costumes, too, cleverly straddle the line between period authenticity and comedic exaggeration. The five actors begin in simple maid attire, layering colourful overdresses to become their various characters. More ostentatious figures like Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Caroline Bingley are given extra flair through costume flourishes that emphasis their larger-than-life personalities.

Music plays a crucial role in maintaining the show’s irreverent tone. While Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) isn’t a full-fledged musical, it embraces karaoke-style pop numbers that perfectly underscore key moments. From Carly Simon’s You’re So Vain to Bonnie Tyler’s Holding Out for a Hero, these musical interludes add a layer of humour while unexpectedly enhancing the emotional beats of the story.

The all-female cast of five—Emma Rose Creaner, Eleanor Kane, Rhianna McGreevy, Naomi Preston Law, and Christine Steel—delivers an outstanding performance. Their ability to switch seamlessly between characters, often within seconds, is nothing short of impressive. Each actor brings a distinct comedic flair: McGreevy’s portrayal of Darcy is both brooding and endearing, while Kane’s Mr. Collins is hilariously awkward. Preston Law’s Elizabeth Bennet balances wit and warmth, making her an easy protagonist to root for. The chemistry among the cast fuels the play’s rapid-fire humour and physical comedy, making even the most exaggerated moments feel natural and engaging.

Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort of) is a triumph—a wildly inventive, irreverent, and deeply entertaining reimagining of Austen’s classic. Balancing sharp wit with heartfelt moments, this production delights, surprises, and keeps audiences laughing while never losing sight of the novel’s enduring charm. With its clever script, exceptional performances, and an infectious sense of fun, it proves that some stories truly stand the test of time—even when retold with karaoke microphones and Irn-Bru. Whether you’re a devoted Austen fan or simply in search of a brilliant night at the theatre, this show is not to be missed.

Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) is at The Lowry until Saturday 22nd March 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Mihaela Bodlovic

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.