Pride and Prejudice opens at Wells Theater
Kiersten Fuhr - Photo and Graphic Manager
Monmouth College Theatre’s first show of the 2024-25 season, Pride and Prejudice, is an adaptation from Jane Austen’s 1813 novel of the same name.
The show follows the Bennet family as they navigate life, and the many challenges presented to them. As the entirety of their property can only be inherited by a male heir (which Mr. Bennet does not have), at least one of the daughters must marry well to support the family in the event of Mr. Bennet’s death.
Set in early 19th century England, there are a few things that you should know about this period to better understand the play’s world.
Courtship is the acceptable path to marriage, not courting before marriage was considered scandalous. Abby Zayas, one of the production’s dramaturgs, said: “The process of courtship has very specific rules and is meant to act as a way for a couple to get to know each other, organize dowries, and decide if they truly want to be married.”
Prevalent to the period, dances had quite a few rules when it came to what you should and should not do at them. Contrary to popular opinion, women could refuse dances if asked but after that refusal it was considered polite to refuse all dances afterwards so not to make it appear that you hated the person you refused (even if you did).
The dances were often quite long, and a couple was expected to dance the entirety of it together. They couldn’t quit halfway through the dance. “As I’m sure it can be surmised from the play, dances and balls are really great ways to meet people and common places for couples to become initially acquainted,” said Zayas.
“Wealth and status are not necessarily related in this era,” said Zayas. “Having more money will certainly situate you in a more comfortable position in life, but it will not guarantee you respect from your fellow man.” Unlike the Bennets, who didn't have as much wealth but were of higher status because of their name, the Bingley's had a lot of wealth but not as high of a status because their money was worked for.
Pride and Prejudice opens Friday, September 27 at 7:30 pm. Performances continue Saturday, September 28 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, September 30 at 2:00 pm. Additionally, keep your eyes out for audition information for the next play Love/Sick, directed by the THEA-377 students.