Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley
Join the Bennet sisters and the rest of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice characters for a show of laughter, tears, and Christmas cheer in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly.
In this sequel to the classic novel, the Bennet family reunites at the Pemberley estate to celebrate the festive season. The beloved cast of characters returns, including Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bingley. This continuation of the story shines the spotlight on one of the more forgotten sisters: Mary Bennet. When we last hear about the Bennet sisters, Mary was the only Bennet sister to not be betrothed by the end of the novel. She was depicted as the least good-looking of the five sisters, and being the middle child left her with the responsibility to care for their aging parents since her sisters married.
The play begins by showing that Mary has resorted to living by her books and facts; she has given up on love finding her. However, when a certain equally awkward and book-smart fellow turns up at the Darcy estate, Mary’s head is turned. What ensues is a flurry of love letters, mixed up books, an unexpected engagement, and quippy lines to spare.
Once again, Regent’s props and set design were exquisitely done. They were the perfect balance of simplicity and style. Throughout the entire show, there was a Christmas tree on stage. As the show progressed, the tree became increasingly adorned with ribbons and ornaments. This gave the audience a sense of moving through the story and also showed the increasing joy of the season that enveloped the household. Pine garland and mistletoe were strung around the makeshift windowsills and study sets on stage, and the costumes also integrated Christmas colors. The couples wore coordinating fabrics and colors that clearly identified who they were paired with.
While Lydia was dressed in over-the-top bright hues, Mary wore subdued tones. It is clear that much thought went into the costumes as each reflected the character’s personality. The score for this theatrical production tied everything together. With every changing mood, Mary would play different songs on the pianoforte. The classical music made the entire theater want to join in dance and song.
This captivating performance truly is a gem. The actors and actresses played their characters as though they are an extension of themselves. If you need to feel some holiday cheer, stop by for Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly.
