Pride & Prejudice
Thu, 31 May 2001, 12:49 amWalter Plinge2 posts in thread
Pride & Prejudice
Thu, 31 May 2001, 12:49 amThe last couple of period pieces I saw at Marloo Theatre were real belly-laugh comedies. Pride & Prejudice was much more subtle, but certainly had the odd uproarious line.
Set in 1813, it follows the five daughters of Mr and Mrs Bennet, and the daughters' quests for love, happiness and marriage (not necessarily in that order). Norman Faraday was a standout as Mr Bennet - truly believable as the ditsy, but dedicated, father. Excellent work too: as the rain pelted Marloo's roof, Norman increased his projection to compensate. Take note, you young 'uns. He contrasted nicely with Christine Ellis's melodramatic Mrs Bennet, who provided many of the laughs.
With five lovely daughters, it may be unfair to single anyone out, but I did really like Teneal Boydell's subdued performance as Mary. She didn't have much to do, but she did it wonderfully - looking much of the time like Daria as she did so. Good to see that Katy Warner (and Marloo) have learned from past wardrobe faux pas. In fact, most of the wardrobe was impeccable (Helen - what a shocking display of ankle!), but were Mr Bennet's trouser legs suppossed to be different lengths? Lets blame it on his eccentricity. Interestingly enough, the first bra was patented in 1913 - exactly one hundred years after this story - an anachronism as evident as the modern lingerie beneath the antique bodice. (Sorry, I had to put that bit in so that Dean would pay attention.)
Tonight's performance started up a little slow, but soon picked up pace. I liked the promenading, which took up time and attention during the scene changes. If I can make an overall comment, I think some of the dialogue suffered from inadequate projection and diction. It's a very wordy script, despite all the car chases, and the audience needs to hear every word. I am also deeply disturbed whenever I see guys wearing more makeup than girls - but that's probably just me.
I understand several cast and crew came into the production at the last minute after a series of problems, so well done to Marloo for pulling it all together.
JB
Set in 1813, it follows the five daughters of Mr and Mrs Bennet, and the daughters' quests for love, happiness and marriage (not necessarily in that order). Norman Faraday was a standout as Mr Bennet - truly believable as the ditsy, but dedicated, father. Excellent work too: as the rain pelted Marloo's roof, Norman increased his projection to compensate. Take note, you young 'uns. He contrasted nicely with Christine Ellis's melodramatic Mrs Bennet, who provided many of the laughs.
With five lovely daughters, it may be unfair to single anyone out, but I did really like Teneal Boydell's subdued performance as Mary. She didn't have much to do, but she did it wonderfully - looking much of the time like Daria as she did so. Good to see that Katy Warner (and Marloo) have learned from past wardrobe faux pas. In fact, most of the wardrobe was impeccable (Helen - what a shocking display of ankle!), but were Mr Bennet's trouser legs suppossed to be different lengths? Lets blame it on his eccentricity. Interestingly enough, the first bra was patented in 1913 - exactly one hundred years after this story - an anachronism as evident as the modern lingerie beneath the antique bodice. (Sorry, I had to put that bit in so that Dean would pay attention.)
Tonight's performance started up a little slow, but soon picked up pace. I liked the promenading, which took up time and attention during the scene changes. If I can make an overall comment, I think some of the dialogue suffered from inadequate projection and diction. It's a very wordy script, despite all the car chases, and the audience needs to hear every word. I am also deeply disturbed whenever I see guys wearing more makeup than girls - but that's probably just me.
I understand several cast and crew came into the production at the last minute after a series of problems, so well done to Marloo for pulling it all together.
JB