Pride and Prejudice ****

‘Pride and Prejudice’ is the latest amateur production from the Melville Theatre Company. It is showing until Mid February.

For an amateur group’s director to choose such a well known classic, one would think it to be total madness. However Vanessa Jensen directed Constance Cox’s two and a half hour dramatisation beautifully. There was a large cast to handle but the essence of the original was retained.

The acting standard was well above average, with several outstanding performances. Surprisingly one of the more senior, and experienced actors, had more than one’s share of fluffs and lengthy ‘dries’.

The costumes were stunning, plush and of the period. The set was versatile with small changes to suggest different location. The side of the proscenium arch being used for a street scene whilst the open stage was quietly and efficiently changed. The director and dramatist also used a novel way of changing locality, by having the maids spring clean the room, whilst acting. By the time they had finished the house was that of a different family.

A very brave risk, which paid off admirably. Congratulations.