• Jack Frances Corte (Lizzie Bennet), Brooke Sandys (Jane Bennet), Tanna Van Rensburg (Mary Bennet) and Alice Dibble (Lydia Bennet)
  • Jack Frances Corte (Lizzie Bennet) and Shivneel Singh (Mr Darcy)
  • Jack Frances Corte and Shivneel Singh

Bennets, bonnets and balls: 'Pride and Prejudice' at The PumpHouse Theatre

A delightful evening awaits at The PumpHouse Theatre this month as Jane Austen’s beloved 'Pride and Prejudice' gets a lively new adaptation. This isn’t the reserved Austen you may remember from high school; it’s a spirited, fast-paced production that blends the charm of the original story with the energy and wit of today’s world. Perfect for fans of classic literature and anyone looking for a memorable night out!

Shivneel Singh steps into the role of the iconic Mr Darcy. While this is his first time acting in an Austen production, his connection to the role is deeply personal – he auditioned in honour of his late fiancée Monica, who passed away in June. “Mon loved this genre,” Singh shares. “I never expected to be cast, let alone as Mr Darcy, but I’m thrilled and hope to make Mon proud.”

Opposite Singh, Jack Frances Corte takes on the role of the bold Elizabeth Bennet. “My sister and I were huge fans of 'Pride and Prejudice' growing up,” Corte says. “It’s such a thrill to bring Lizzie to life – she’s funny, smart and independent. This show really captures that."

Kate Hamill’s clever adaptation doesn’t lose sight of what makes Austen timeless: the humour, the heart and of course, the love stories that keep us coming back to Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. Expect plenty of laughs, a bit of romance and the joy of live theatre as you watch the characters navigate the tricky world of finding the right match.

Foolish Wit Theatre is a company with a reputation for creating high-quality, engaging productions. Founders James Bell, Mags Delaney-Moffatt and Āria Harrison-Sparke bring decades of experience to the stage, focusing on great storytelling, world building and a strong sense of community among cast and crew.

Recent productions at The PumpHouse include 'The Welkin' in 2023, the sold-out season of 'The Crucible' in 2021, and 'The Vagina Monologues' the year before that.

Whether you’re an Austen fan or just love a good story, this is a fresh and fun take on 'Pride and Prejudice' that’s sure to leave you smiling. But don’t wait too long – tickets are already selling fast!

'Pride and Prejudice' is playing from Wednesday 13 to Sunday 17 November at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna.
Tickets are available at pumphouse.co.nz


Issue 158 November 2024