Gay Pride and No Prejudice at the Union Theatre aims to mash up Austen’s wit with a Queer twist, and while it’s a fun idea, the execution wobbles a bit. There’s a lot to love – fresh takes, playful nods, and a new spin on classic romance – but it doesn’t always hit the mark.
The story sticks to the familiar Pride and Prejudice beats, but in a world where Queer identities are celebrated. It’s refreshing, but the first half feels like it’s trying too hard to impress, stuck between period drama and modern-day cheekiness. The jokes land, then they don’t, and the whole thing takes a while to find its rhythm.
It hints at Queer wit and romance, but it could use a little more spark to truly dazzle.
Things perk up in the second half, where the cast starts to click and the energy levels rise. Michael Gillette’s Darcy brings just the right mix of brooding and vulnerability. He’s got that quiet intensity, but there’s a softer side that peeks through, making his version of Darcy feel fresh. The chemistry with Noah Butt’s Bingley is a highlight – Butt’s warm, easy-going charm brings out a lighter side in Darcy, and together they give the play its heart. Their scenes together have a gentle humour that keeps you invested.
Sophie Bloor’s Elizabeth Bennet is sharp and sparky, though the script doesn’t always give her room to steal the show. Marianne March’s Mrs. Bennet dives headfirst into comedy, and while it teeters on the edge of over-the-top, it mostly works. The cast is solid, but sometimes it feels like they’re trying to make more of the material than what’s there.
The set is cleverly minimalist, with a touch of Regency flair blended with contemporary nods. It’s functional, smooth, and transitions very well, but it doesn’t exactly dazzle until the lighting brings it to life. The lighting does a great job of shifting the mood, but overall, the visual elements play it a bit too safe to match the play’s ambitions.
Final Thoughts ★★★☆
Would I recommend Gay Pride and No Prejudice? Yes, but with a gentle nudge to manage your expectations. Queer Austen performed for a Queer audience – what’s not to love? When it works, it’s a delight. The second half truly shines, offering fun, fresh moments that bring a modern twist to the classic tale. However, it’s a bit of a mixed bag overall, with some awkward pacing to sit through before it finds its rhythm.
Still, if you’re in the mood for a playful, Queer reinterpretation of a beloved story, there’s plenty here to enjoy. While not as polished as it aims to be, it brims with heart, and sometimes, that’s enough. I found myself really torn between a 3 and 4-star rating – it was fun but.
Playing at Union Theatre until 2 November 2024.
Disclaimer: A complimentary ticket was provided in return for an honest and unbiased review.
More Reading
- A Queer Cowboy in the City: Lonesome’s Gritty Tale of Queer Longing and Discovery
- All of Us Strangers: A Hauntingly Beautiful Exploration of What Could Have Been
- Bear Traps at The Golden Goose Theatre: A Quiet Look at Family Ties and Black Holes
- Buried Truths and Second Chances: Two Come Home Delivers a Heartfelt, Moving Reckoning
