Gay Pride and No Prejudice ★★★ The Union Theatre | Oct 8 - Nov 2, 2024


Imagine Pride and Prejudice's Mr Darcy, now in his 70s and happily settled with his partner in quiet domestic bliss. But, who is that partner? This is the frame for Gay Pride and No Prejudice which is the latest riff on the enduring Austen classic. Unfortunately, the title of this updating of the story rather gives away any surprise. In this version of the tale, Darcy accepts that he is gay, and he is enamoured of Bingley who seems determined to see his future in a conventionally heterosexual union with Jane Bennet. Here, Darcy and Elizabeth's sparring, at least on his side, is not motivated by sexual tension, and they actually come together over shared values around feminism and equality. David Kerby-Kendall's story certainly works on some levels, but the comedy of manners bleeds into farce, and some of the rather bawdy humour and explicit sexual discussion seems out of place in Austen's world. In general, there is an unevenness of tone that is jarring throughout, and the contemporary allusions and attitudes seem awkwardly inserted. As Mr Bennet, Kerby-Kendall has given himself some good epigrams and sharp comic lines. His is the standout performance of the show, and he nicely plays against Marianne March who, as Mrs Bennet, milks all the silliness there is from her role. Noah Butt as Bingley and Sophie Bradley as Jane are suitably wide-eyed and conformist, and Michael Gillette as Darcy and Sophie Bloor as Elizabeth are appropriately standoffish and feisty. Bob Sterrett's set works very well, but some of the musical choices seem incongruous. This is a show that probably won't work for die-hard Austen aficionados, but it could have real appeal for those who enjoy the antics of Bridgerton.

Rated: ★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Lucy Nixon

Want to save on tickets? See our Tips page.

When, Where, Getting there:

Most Popular

St. Martin in-the-fields: Lunchtime Concerts ★★★★ FREE

Canned Goods ★★★ Southwark Playhouse, Borough | Jan 16 - Feb 8, 2025

What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank ★★★★ Marylebone Theatre | Jan 20 - Feb 15, 2025

Kyoto ★★★★★ @sohoplace | Until May 3, 2025

The Bowie Show ★★★ Lyric Theatre | February 10, 2025 & UK Tour

FIREBIRD ★★★★★ King's Head Theatre | Jan 9 - Feb 9, 2025

Macbeth ★★★★ Donmar Theatre | Cinemas from February 5, 2025

A Good House ★★★★★ Royal Court Theatre | Jan 11 - Feb 8, 2025

Scissorhandz – A Musical Reinvented ★★ Southwark Playhouse, Elephant | Jan 23 - Mar 29, 2025

The Maids ★★★ Jermyn Street Theatre | January 9 - 22, 2025

The City Life Magazine | Reviews & Ratings