I don’t think it’s a big secret that I am a huge Jane Austen fan so I was thrilled when I was invited to watch a new production of Pride and Prejudice at new to me Eagle Mountain Community Theatre in Eagle Mountain. This was especially fun because it is the Andrew Davies version of the play and as he did the iconic 1995 miniseries version of this story I was very curious to see it in play form.

This production at Eagle Mountain was also unique because it was at an elementary school and this did provide some challenges for the cast and crew. The stage sits on the side of a gymnasium making the space very echoey and difficult to move from scene to scene. However, director Jerid Clark and their team pushed through and prevailed with a fun take on the classic story.

The biggest strength to this production is the cast. I have never seen a bald Darcy but Brigham Jenkins brings the awkward energy that has become the popular way of portraying the character. Rachel Lundberg is commanding as Lizzy and when The Ruth does their upcoming Pride and Prejudice I hope she is a serious contender for the role. Meg McCoy as Mrs Bennet and Cimony Carter as Lady Catherine De Bourgh are also standouts.

Unlike his miniseries, this play version by Davies clips along quite quickly especially in the second act but lovers of the story certainly get enough for them to fill in the details. At Eagle Mountain they use a combination of projections and handmade sets (Rochelle Rackliffe and Elizabeth Ellis) to take us through the many events of the novel. There was also obvious care put into the costumes, especially Lady Catherine’s dress by Elizabeth Mashburn. They also have musical interludes from Eagle Mountain Symphony Quartet, which was a nice touch.

As you can tell from my description, Pride and Prejudice at Eagle Mountain was a true community event with everyone putting forth their best efforts, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Unfortunately it was only last weekend so I saw the final show, but I will definitely attend shows in the future. You can find more information here.

If you enjoy my writing and would like me to review your production I’d love to. I also have a patreon which is a great way to support my shorter logs for shows I don’t get to review. I have some really fun perks like bonus episodes, patron polls and monthly Q&As with actors, directors and writers. Please take a look here.