CREEDE-A classic with new spin took center stage in front of a packed house at the Creede Repertory Theatre on Sunday night. As part of the 2019 CRT lineup, Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless 1813 novel, Pride and Prejudice, is a story that takes audiences to another time with an infusion of contemporary humor.

While the premise of the story of an English family of four daughters whose mother is determined to see them marry well-to-do men remained much the same, the element of comedy was very much a part of the production. Many of the same famous characters such as Lizzy Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, and Lady Catherine De Bourgh, were present. The costumes and set lent a great deal to creating an atmosphere that spoke to past times. 

While there were lines that were easily recognizable from the original, plenty of comedic outbursts from characters had the audience laughing. A great deal of versatility was also utilized as the production unfolded with numerous scene changes, and eight players taking on 15 different roles. The idea that marriage should not be something that one is forced into was also a key part of the storyline. The players all did an excellent job of portraying their characters and even getting a bit goofy at times!

While certain elements of the story were abbreviated or changed, the traditional plot was very recognizable. The play also poked fun at the idea of having to conform to a label and was also a nod to the idea that your situation in life does not have to define who you can become. In the end, it could be argued that the production was a reminder that individuality is what makes the world go around.