Jane Austen’s renowned novel, Pride and Prejudice, has captured the hearts of millions of readers worldwide and has remained a literary staple for more than 200 years after its publication. The story has fostered multiple stage and screen versions, including a 2005 Oscar-nominated film starring Keira Knightley. With the imminent celebration of Austen’s 250th birthday in December comes a brilliantly staged production of Pride and Prejudice (adapted by Emma Whipday) at Compass Rose Theater. Expertly directed by Madeline Austin (with musical direction by Jack Benedict), Compass Rose’s outstanding presentation of this beloved play features a phenomenal cast.
Pride and Prejudice revolves around the Bennet family, which consists of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five unmarried daughters: Elizabeth, Jane, Kitty, Lydia, and Mary. When Mrs. Bennet receives word that a wealthy bachelor, Mr. Bingley, has moved nearby, she desperately hopes that one of her daughters will marry him. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Bingley meets Jane at a ball and falls for her immediately. This same evening, Mr. Bingley’s conceited friend, Mr. Darcy, acts rudely toward Elizabeth, much to her dismay. Mr. Bingley’s sister, Caroline, envies Elizabeth for getting attention from Mr. Darcy, as she aspires to marry him for his wealth and status. At subsequent social gatherings, Jane and Mr. Bingley’s romance continues to blossom, and Mr. Darcy finds himself deeply attracted to Elizabeth as they spend more time together. Along the way, the Bennet sisters are also courted by the pompous clergyman Mr. Collins and the deceitfully charming army officer Mr. Wickham. Everyone involved in these romances must overcome the central themes of pride and prejudice, and this leads to some surprising events.
As the Bennet sisters, Caleigh Riordan Davis (Elizabeth), Molly Marsh (Jane), Emma Magner (Kitty), Leah Senseney (Lydia), and Peri Walker (Mary) each gave effervescent performances. Their camaraderie and enthusiasm shone through in every scene, and they expressed every emotion with heart, from excitement to dismay. Davis was also refined and stately as Elizabeth, personifying this legendary character through sophisticated speech and refined mannerisms. Walker displayed a gorgeous soprano voice as a featured soloist at the ball, showcasing extraordinary vocal talent. In an outstanding performance as Mrs. Bennet, Katie Rey Bogdan colorfully conveyed her frustration with her daughters’ lack of marriage prospects. Her animated facial expressions and slapstick mannerisms were tremendously entertaining, and her brash delivery elicited hearty laughter.
Matthew Crawford was delightfully charming as Mr. Bennet, amusingly disagreeing with his wife’s ways and ideals. Mr. Darcy was excellently played by Gaven Heglar, who skillfully executed the character’s transformative arc. Joshua Ikotun’s dignified portrayal of Mr. Bingley was marked by his debonair demeanor, and he effectively engaged the audience by involving them in conversation during a ballroom scene. Lilly Burchfield perfectly communicated Caroline’s jealousy toward Elizabeth through her sassiness and disgusted countenance. Elvis Karageya, as Mr. Collins, personified the character’s arrogant and self-absorbed disposition, delivering his lines with a smarmy attitude. Matthew Beagan superbly portrayed Mr. Wickham, capturing both the conniving and charismatic sides of the character’s personality.
Choreographer Lindsay Zetter created intricate dances for the ballroom scenes. Her expertise was reflected in the cast’s ability to execute flowing and complex movements. August Henney’s elaborate set design vividly represented every location from grand ballrooms to lush gardens. Ilana Mongilio’s intricate costumes were visually stunning, as her designs displayed tailored period suits and embellished ballgowns.
Compass Rose Theater’s splendid rendition of Pride and Prejudice is a theatrical masterpiece on all levels. This timeless tale of love and misinterpretation is sure to evoke a myriad of feelings. The company’s fabulous production of this Jane Austen classic presents messages that still resonate more than two centuries after the story’s initial introduction. What a lovely outing to kick off the holiday season!
Running Time: Two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
Pride and Prejudice plays through December 14, 2025, presented by Compass Rose Theater, performing at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts (third floor), 801 Chase Street, Annapolis, MD. Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. For tickets ($25–$55, plus fees), call the box office at 410-980-6662 or purchase online.
A virtual playbill is available here.
Pride and Prejudice
Based on the Book by Jane Austen
Adapted by Emma Whipday
Directed by Madeline Austin
Musical Direction by Jack Benedict
Choreography by Lindsay Zetter
