By David Gardette
Establishing itself as one of the greatest romance novels ever written, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice continues to captivate readers and audiences. Published in 1813, its popularity continues to grow, selling over 20 million copies, never going out of print, and constantly appearing on most loved book lists the world over. Its popularity has influenced numerous adaptations including Bollywood films, movie classics such as ‘You’ve Got Mail’, ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ to the teen TV saga, ‘Twilight’. But of all the adaptations, the 1995 BBC classic, starring Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth, continues to receive a devoted following. And with every adaptation a new collection of Austen devotees (Janeites) is born.
An insight into the social eccentricities of 19th century rural England, Pride and Prejudice follows the Bennet family and the quest to marry off their five daughters in a society where the importance of wealth and rank overshadows compatibility and love. The Bennet sisters encounter a series of eligible bachelors, but it is the burgeoning relationship between sharp witted Elizabeth Bennet with her unconventional views on society and the aloof, rich aristocratic landowner Fitzwilliam Darcy, that takes centre stage. Austen’s insight into love, reputation – particularly those for women, class, integrity and of course gender are examined with a penetrating cleverness that is arguably well before its time.
Following a successful Sydney season, this hybrid between performance and staged reading is entertainingly concise with a skilful adaptation by Gil Hornby and features Carl Davis’s beautiful 1995 BBC classical score throughout. We are treated to a chatty introduction by violinist Madeleine Easton and pianist Dan Le, setting the scene and revealing facts on Austen, the novel and the music of the time. The short recitals of Schubert, Beethoven and Mendelssohn, a wonderful treat on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
The Regency drawing room set is simple yet effective, allowing an ease of flow for actress Nadine Garner’s many character portrayals. The diverse and exceptional female performances we have been treated to recently, Julia (Justine Clark), Mother (Noni Hazelhurst), RBG (Heather Mitchell) continues with Garner. Bounding on stage with the aplomb of an English bright young thing, Garner brings a delightful cheekiness as she boldly navigates Austen’s many lush characters. Vocalisations, physicality and expressions offer just the right substance without falling into caricature. A cheeky smile, wink, knowing look conveying Austen’s acerbic social observations and razor-sharp wit. Garner’s characterisations and artful narration coupled with director Tyran Parkes’ seamless merging of text and music, keep this 90-minute homage skipping along.
There is wonderful joy on display with an obvious love for the text and music. And although this abridged version loses some plot intricacies, it does pique the interest in discovering more, perhaps launching a whole new generation of Janeites to the foibles and follies of Austen’s world.
Pride and Prejudice: An Adaptation in Words and Music
Arts Centre Melbourne, until October 6
Image: Robert Catto
