UPDATE: Jane Austen’s literary legacy receives a fresh spotlight as her works celebrate the 250th anniversary of her birth this year. The Compass Rose Theater in Annapolis is set to premiere a live adaptation of Pride & Prejudice on November 14, bringing Austen’s enduring humor and wit to modern audiences.
Madeline Austin, the theater’s artistic director, was inspired after witnessing a live performance of the adaptation last year at the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia. The adaptation, penned by playwright Emma Whipday, captures the essence of Austen’s storytelling while making it accessible for today’s viewers.
Whipday, who has previously adapted other Austen classics, shares her deep admiration for the author. She reflects, “I think it was one of those novels that my mum pressed on me and just said, ‘You have to read this.’” Her adaptation maintains the intricate family dynamics and societal themes that define Austen’s work.
The upcoming production promises to follow the original plot closely, emphasizing the love story of Elizabeth Bennet amidst the societal pressures of her time. Whipday aims to present a balanced perspective on characters like Mr. Darcy, allowing audiences to understand his awkwardness and depth, which can be overlooked in traditional adaptations.
Austin emphasizes the adaptation’s modern relevance, stating, “It really cut to the heart of the novel.” The production reduces excessive exposition while ensuring that even first-time viewers can easily follow the storyline. This approach is crucial in keeping Austen’s narrative alive for new generations.
As Austen’s birthday approaches, both Whipday and Austin express a desire for more of her works, noting the profound impact she has had despite her untimely death at the age of 41. “The other thing that’s really exciting to me about how Austen’s novels are being celebrated is that they are romantic,” Whipday adds, highlighting the academic recognition Austen has garnered over the years.
The Compass Rose Theater recently concluded a production of Annie, which received a nomination for a Helen Hayes Award, and is poised for further productions, including Rent and a cabaret show in early 2024.
Tickets for Pride & Prejudice, running through December 14, are available on the Compass Rose Theater’s website, offering a chance for audiences to experience Austen’s timeless charm in a vibrant new format.
As excitement builds for this adaptation, the community is reminded of the lasting influence of Jane Austen, whose works continue to resonate with readers and theatergoers alike.
