UPDATE: Jane Austen’s 250th birthday is being celebrated with a dynamic new adaptation of her classic novel, Pride and Prejudice, premiering at the Compass Rose Theater in Annapolis on November 14, 2023. The adaptation, crafted by UK playwright Emma Whipday, promises to breathe new life into Austen’s beloved characters and wit, making it accessible for modern audiences.
Madeline Austin, the theater’s artistic director, felt compelled to bring this adaptation to life after witnessing its engaging performance at the American Shakespeare Center. “Austen’s humor and wit leapt from the stage,” Austin remarked, underscoring the adaptation’s potential to resonate with audiences today.
Whipday, who has a deep appreciation for Austen’s intricate plots and vivid characterizations, aims to retain the essence of the original while making it digestible for contemporary viewers. “I wanted to create an adaptation that would follow the plot and keep as much of the spirit of the original alive,” she stated.
The adaptation delves into Elizabeth Bennet’s journey through love and societal expectations, all while highlighting familial dynamics. “I wanted to give a little bit more of [Mr. Darcy’s] awkwardness and introversion,” Whipday explained, emphasizing her approach to character development.
Austin praised Whipday’s work, noting how it captures the heart of the novel, eliminating unnecessary exposition while keeping the audience engaged. “You could follow the plot line easily, even if you had never read Jane Austen before,” she said.
The significance of this adaptation is heightened by the timing of Austen’s anniversary. Despite having written only six novels before her untimely death at 41, her influence endures, particularly in the realm of romance literature. Whipday noted, “Austen is at the heart of the academic establishment, and everyone recognizes how wonderful she is.”
As the anticipation builds for the opening night, both Whipday and Austin expressed a shared wish that Austen could have penned more works. The adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is set to run until December 14, 2023, with tickets available through the Compass Rose Theater’s website.
This celebration of Jane Austen’s legacy is not just about her literary contributions but also highlights the continuing relevance of her themes in today’s society. The theater’s recent accolades, including a Helen Hayes award nomination for its production of Annie, further solidify its commitment to excellence in the arts.
Stay tuned as this vibrant adaptation unfolds, promising to captivate a new generation of Austen enthusiasts.
