Pride and Prejudice – Octagon Theatre

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is celebrated for its wit and insight into gender and class. Kate Hamill’s stage adaptation reframes Austen’s story through a fast-paced, farcical lens — one that’s lively and inventive, if not always emotionally resonant.

The plot is familiar: Elizabeth Bennet is one of four unmarried daughters in a financially precarious household. Her sharp wit and scepticism about marriage bring her into conflict — and ultimately connection — with the aloof but wealthy Mr. Darcy. Meanwhile, younger sister Lydia throws herself into romantic entanglement with the roguish Mr. Wickham, while Jane, the eldest, quietly pines for Mr. Bingley.

Hamill’s script leans heavily into broad comedy and slapstick. Some choices are entertainingly bold; others verge on caricature. Mary, for example, is treated as a recurring punchline, rather than a figure of sympathy. Lydia’s arc, too, loses some emotional weight as her character is drawn in such exaggerated terms that the darker implications of her fate are dulled.

Still, the cast brings great energy and precision. Rosa Hesmondhalgh is excellent as Elizabeth, grounding the play’s comic flourishes in intelligence and heart. Joanna Holden gives a standout performance as Mrs. Bennet, her larger-than-life approach finely tuned for laughs without losing touch with the character’s desperation.

Ben Fonsome juggles multiple roles with flair, particularly as the smarmy Mr. Wickham and the awkwardly intense Mr. Collins. Dyfrig Morris delivers a quietly sardonic Mr. Bennet, balancing out the show’s more frantic rhythms with dry restraint.

Director Lotte Wareham keeps the pace brisk and the tone buoyant, finding rhythm and clarity amid the chaos. Louie Whitemore’s set design is simple yet effective, supporting quick transitions and keeping the focus squarely on the actors.

Whether this style suits your taste may depend on how much Austen you want in your Austen. It’s less drawing-room drama, more sketch comedy — but within that frame, the production finds plenty to enjoy. And the ending? It’s a treat.

Pride and Prejudice continues at The Bolton Octagon until 28th June. For tickets and information visit https://octagonbolton.co.uk/events/pride-prejudice

Reviewer: Brian Madden

Reviewed: 10th June 2025

North West End UK Rating: