Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of)

It is a truth universally acknowledged that the British public never tires of re-treading Jane Austen’s classic, from the classic films, TV remakes to stage plays.

Direct from its triumph in the West End where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) – and now coming to New Brighton’s Floral Pavilion –  is this unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story.

Men, money and microphones will be fought over in this irreverent but affectionate adaptation where the stakes couldn’t be higher when it comes to romance. This multi-award-winning production features a string of pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain.

Whimsical though it may seem, this sort of sideways exploration on display here is invited by a show that filters history through the consciousness of the #MeToo era, making merry with the glamorous superficialities of Regency society – while sneaking Carly Simon and Bonnie Tyler into its storytelling and doing away with many of its inhibitions.

Isobel McArthur has reshaped Pride and Prejudice in a way that Austen could not. Her most inspired idea is to use karaoke as a tool to involve as well as entertain the audience; seeing this show is like a speedread.

This female-driven production filters a classic work through a 21st-century lens. It burrows into ever-weaving themes: racism, sexism, class; the ache of irrelevance; why relationships are worth it, however agonising they get.

The terrific cast transform themselves from Austen’s unnamed “below the stairs” staff into the Bennet family and their suitors by slipping on posh frocks in between blasts of karaoke.

The entire production canters along like a thoroughbred racehorse; It’s an invigorating ride and will be at the Floral Pavilion from Tuesday 8^th to Saturday 12^th of April 2025. Tickets are available now from Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of) – Floral Pavilion.