Pride and Prejudice | Theatr Clwyd

Jane Austen's works are well known for her sharp social commentary and wit, and Kate Hamill's adaptation of the classic novel Pride and Prejudice honours this legacy with a lively and affectionate production. With direction from Lotte Wakeham, this production captures the romantic tension and sincerity of the show with balanced humour and sharp wit throughout.

The cast are uniformly excellent, bringing clarity and warmth to Austen’s familiar characters. Rosa Hesmondhalgh's Lizzie Bennet’s is assured and headstrong, but also conveys quiet moments of tenderness and vulnerability. James Sheldon's evolution from reserved and brooding to lovesick Mr Darcy is portrayed with a subtle charm, and there is undeniable chemistry between Hesmondhalgh and Sheldon that makes their budding relationship feel authentic.

Ben Fensome perfectly adds comedic value as Mr Collins, portraying his socially awkward side as well as his ridiculous ways of worshipping the rich and powerful. Likewise, Joanna Holden steals the show with moments of hysteria as she desperately wishes for her children to marry rich. Whilst Eve Pereira does a solid job as both Mary Bennett and Mr Bingley, one does question the choice to multi-role the two characters.

Louie Whitemore's costume design is stunning and perfectly captures the era in which the story takes plae. However, the sparse set design (also Whitemore), while perhaps intended to allow the language and performances to shine, often felt at odds with Theatr Clwyd’s expansive stage. The minimalism sometimes left the production feeling visually underpowered, particularly in moments that called for a greater sense of place or period. By contrast, the music design (Andy Graham) was notably effective, with string instrumentals of pop songs matching the scenes or feelings of the characters, the music design is a thoughtful and well-integrated touch, conveying emotional weight where the staging was less evocative.

Overall, Theatr Clwyd’s Pride and Prejudice is a well-acted, musically rich adaptation that delivers Austen’s charm and sharpness, even if its visual restraint doesn’t always serve the story’s grandeur.

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review