Pride and Prejudice
at Flint Hill School

Reviewed on October 27, 2018

Kara Murri
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News

Open a copy of "Pride and Prejudice" and you might find densely-packed pages full of sophisticated language and plot upon subplot, with the intrigue and romance seemingly hidden underneath, but at Flint Hill School they dusted off the shelves to produce a sweetly sincere stage adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice" that left the audience sparkling with fulfillment.

Many are well-acquainted with the narrative of "Pride and Prejudice", not only from the book, but also from the countless TV and movie adaptations of this ageless story since its publication in 1813. Jane Austen's light-hearted romantic comedy has undergone multiple stage adaptations. Flint Hill performed a newer stage adaptation by Paula K. Parker, whose main purpose was to maintain the integrity of Jane Austen's original work. Set at a time when a woman was judged by her countenance, manners, and accomplishments, the play follows Elizabeth Bennet and her four sisters, who struggle to navigate the intricacies of Georgian Era social expectations. With the prodding of an opportunistic mother, the girls become entangled in encounters full of love and hate when two rich, eligible bachelors arrive to the area.

Throughout the show, the cast maintained an air of propriety and decorum, with a few notable exceptions due to character choices. Members of the cast were able to delve deeper into the social commentary when they showed raw emotion. Notable was the juxtaposition of various characters and relationships. From the subtle gestures of some and the boisterous nature of others, the cast effectively elicited chuckles and gasps from the audience.

The quick-witted Elizabeth Bennet, regarded as very sensible, was portrayed by Alexandra "Sasha" Wai. Alexandra effectively toed the fine line between fiery and reserved, passionate and composed. She embodied her character with each eye roll and icy look. George Moacdieh as Mr. Darcy truly earned the admiration of the audience. Beginning with deliberate and cold physicality, Moacdieh accurately portrayed the "odious" Mr. Darcy, but became increasingly lovable as his ardor for Elizabeth intensified. In Act Two, the final scene between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth was particularly striking. Both actors exuded intense energy and passion, enrapturing the audience when the fervor rose to a fever pitch.

Standout performances included Ansley Bryan as the manipulative sister Caroline Bingley, who acted her part with a devious zest. Even when not the focus of the scene, Bryan directed her attention with precision, so the audience could clearly identify her feelings. Mr. Bennet (Thomas Norberg) and Mrs. Bennet (Hannah Khan) both played off each other's opposing personalities with refreshing humor. Mr. Collins and his patron Lady Catherine de Bourgh played by Andrew Hamilton and Julianne Cuevo, respectively, were also sources of entertainment, through spot-on timing and physicality.

A commendable effort was displayed by the stage crew, who managed to maneuver large set pieces with precision, led by their stage manager Lily Kyser. Despite frequent scene changes, it was clear to the audience in what setting the action took place, from flower placement to window positions. Silhouettes of costumed crew members, accompanied with light instrumental music, exhibited the same polished postures as the actors, contributing to the proper atmosphere of the show.

Ever fastidious and cordial, Flint Hill School's production of "Pride and Prejudice" endearingly convinced the audience of the dangers of pride, and that they might want to read more Jane Austen.

Caroline Alpi
HB Woodlawn Secondary Program
Submitted for publication to Cappies News 2

In the 19th century world of Pride and Prejudice, the way one is viewed by neighbors and family is of the utmost importance. Jane Austen argues through the attraction of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, deemed an unsuitable match by both their family circles, that one's happiness in love should come before the approval of others. Austen's beloved novel was first adapted into a play in 1936, and many versions of the script have since been produced, including a few notable movies, from the classic 1940 film to a 2016 thriller titled Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.

Although Flint Hill's production Paula K. Parker's 2012 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice did not have the benefit of an apocalyptic, zombified war zone to boost the energy of the show, the play held the attention of its audience through engaging comedy and emotional tension that demonstrated the exceptional range and strength of its actors.

Leading duo Elizabeth Bennet (Alexandra "Sasha" Wai) and Mr. Darcy (George Moacdieh) had powerful chemistry when together on the stage. Their character arcs worked in tandem as they evolved over the course of their relationship until their eventual proclamation of love that concluded the play felt almost inevitable. Everything about their interactions was purposeful, from the subtleties of their eye contact to the tension in every touch. Wai used her superb vocal control to demonstrate her character's witty humor and pessimistic disposition. The audience was drawn to her commitment to subdued physicalizing that highlighted the moments when she was caught off guard or her tranquility was broken.

Another standout performance was Ansley Bryan as Caroline Bingley. Bryan commanded the stage with her sass and pace of banter. She was consistently attuned to the actors around her and maintained a strong sense of Caroline Bingley's complicated relationships with every other character. Lady Catherine de Bourgh (Julianne Cuevo) captured the attention of the audience with her impressive facial expressions and decisive physical choices. Mrs. Bennet (Hannah Khan) brought a light-heartedness to the production with her dramatic portrayal of her character. Khan's playful repartee with Mr. Bennet (Thomas Norberg) was a hilarious break from the emotional drama of the script.

The Bennet family ensemble connected with one another in every scene, from the comedic bit of shutting up their overly-talkative sister with a chorus of "thank you, Mary!" to the hardship the family collectively faced when Lydia ran off with Mr. Wickham, damaging the Bennet family name.

The stage crew handled the show's many scene changes with ease. Each crew member was dressed in period-appropriate costume, and the specific lights and sound that accompanied each transition helped make them seamless. The costuming created a strong distinction between roles for the actors playing multiple parts, as well as indicating social class, which enhanced the important themes of class division that created the conflict of the show.

Flint Hill showcased its outstanding talent in an engaging production of Pride and Prejudice that is sure to be remembered by its audience long after the curtain falls.

Joshua Mutterperl
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Submitted for publication to Patch.com

Jane Austen's world of eccentric gentlemen, austere nobles, and independent young women is charmingly brought to life in Flint Hill's production of Pride and Prejudice.

The source material, renowned author Jane Austen's book of the same name, has been adapted to the stage several times since the novel's release in 1813; this production used a script adapted by Paula K. Walker. The play tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a clever and opinionated girl who believes in marrying for love, an unconventional belief at the time. Elizabeth often finds herself at odds with the strange and disagreeable Mr. Darcy, although the tension between them gradually reveals the affections they truly hold for each other. Concurrently, Elizabeth's mother, Mrs. Bennet, flits about attempting to set up relationships for her five daughters in order to secure their family's position in society.

Elizabeth, played by Alexandra Wai, always brought her signature biting wit to the stage. Wai's use of restraint when delivering scathing criticisms added an extra layer of depth and nuance to this beloved character. Wai's composure and the way in which it would shift depending on her relation to her scene partner was always fascinating to watch. Indeed, Wai shined in the relationships she was able to explore both with her body and voice.

One such relationship was with Mr. Darcy, portrayed with superb mannerisms and interesting quirks by George Moacdieh. Moacdieh worked very meticulously with his face and positioning onstage to present Darcy with just the right degree of awkwardness. Together with Wai, it was easy to tell the immediate but strange tension these two felt for each other. The evolution of their relationship felt genuine, as Darcy learned to express his feelings and admit when he cared about someone else while Elizabeth learned to forgive Darcy's initial appearances in order to love the man he really is. Both performers told this story very well through the gradual changes in their voice, physicality, and overall demeanor that occurred during the show.

Another relationship Elizabeth explored was with her father, Mr. Bennet (played by Thomas Norberg), who was versatile and engaging throughout the piece. Norberg oscillated between delivering a hilarious performance through his deadpan delivery and deft use of pauses and showing a legitimate, caring side to Mr. Bennet through soft words and physical connection. Norberg truly cared about each and every one of his daughters, and his moments with Elizabeth were heartful and impactful. Norberg also maintained a delightful relationship with Mrs. Bennet (played by Hannah Khan), feeding off of her energy very well. Khan managed to be exciting without being over the top, making her character fun to watch while still seeming grounded within the realm of the play.

A plethora of lively and dynamic featured characters elevated the show. Mr. Collins, (portrayed by Andrew Hamilton), was a joy to watch, masterfully creating a character that was forward and prideful and yet somehow utterly likable, especially in scenes with the severe and self-important Lady Catherine, played by Julianne Cuevo. Sebastian Van Der Weide as Charles Bingley was earnest and charming, forming an adorable relationship with Jane Bennet (played by Madeline Moran), the lovely eldest Bennet sister. Caroline Bingley, played by Ansley Bryan, was conniving, cruel, and always engaged in and reacting to events around her.

Transitions were smooth and the costumed run crew kept the audience within the world of the play. Interesting lighting and sound during these scene changes kept things moving.

Genuine relationships and engaging stage personas at Flint Hill created a show as full of fun and enjoyment as it was pride and prejudice.

Sophie Camus
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Insidenova - Sun Gazette

Why would anyone marry if not for love? This is the question which plagues the audience throughout Flint Hill School's "Pride and Prejudice". This complex and philosophical narrative explores the flaws of Georgian society, while also alluring the audience through a piquant and enigmatic romance.

"Pride and Prejudice" is a theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen's classic of the same name. Flint Hill School's rendition was adapted by novelist Paula K. Parker and published in 2012. The show chronicles the Bennet family's quest to marry off all five of their daughters to men of status. The difficulty arises when it is time for Elizabeth to marry, as she is a dignified intellectual who insists on respecting her partner. She is uninterested in suitors until she encounters Mr. Darcy, a taciturn and prideful bachelor, who challenges her with his pensiveness and wit. Her initial animosity towards him melts away throughout the show, leaving a passionate romance which starkly contrasts the oppressively strategic marriages of others in her society.

Critical in depicting this contrast were the subjects of the romance, Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who both masterfully presented their roles in Flint Hill's production. Alexandra Wai (Elizabeth Bennet) displayed a discernible progression in her emotional freedom, gradually losing her stone-faced poise and adopting subtle emotions. Even while stoic, Wai cleverly injected searing wit which captivated the audience. Mr. Darcy was ingeniously played by George Moacdieh. His most remarkable accomplishment was in the rigid and anxious physicality he adopted, exemplified by a nervously tapping foot or a tight posture. After Elizabeth initially rejected him, Darcy distanced himself from her, while also maintaining affection and concern, demonstrating his conflicting feelings towards her. Both actors, at the end of Act Two, demonstrated a refreshing break of their restraint, leading to a passionate kiss and even a twirling Mr. Darcy.

Equally brilliant were many of the supporting actors of "Pride and Prejudice". Thomas Norberg as Mr. Bennet carried prodigious maturity, guiding his daughters with loving attention, while also interweaving uproarious comedic skill in both delivery and physical humor. Andrew Hamilton, playing the greasy social climbing Mr. Collins, stole many scenes with his comical satire. Julliane Cuevo as Catherine de Bourgh similarly injected hilarious exaggerations along with bold physicality, which demonstrated flaws in Georgian social structure. Sebastian Van Der Weide, as Mr. Charles Bingley, was incredibly charming in his innocent romance with the equally endearing Madeline Moran, playing Jane Bennet. These actors elaborated on their roles while retaining the flavor of the era, making them each captivating while also catalyzing the larger narrative.

Flint Hill School's technical abilities and attention to detail were most definitely on display for "Pride and Prejudice". The stage crew was a pleasant surprise, as they were all in costume and even occasionally acted as servants in the show itself. Additionally, music true to the period was played in between scenes, which helped sustain the audience's immersion in the era. Props also showed great variety and class through exquisite floral arrangements and historically accurate props, such as an antique letter writing kit. The efforts of these technical areas contributed beautifully to the suspension of disbelief for this show.
Flint Hill School's "Pride and Prejudice" splendidly demonstrated societal customs of the past and the issues they caused. One felt a great deal of relief in remembering that these standards no longer operate, and, much like Elizabeth Bennet, we are free to love as we choose.

Elena Auclair
Teen Theatre Company
Submitted for publication to Connection

It's a simple story: boy meets girl. But when this rude boy tries proposing to the proud girl, he's refused. He tries again after many trials between them, and is finally accepted! In any other author's hands, this plot would be trite. But Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" is an enduring story showing how first impressions aren't all that they seem. Adapted for the stage by Paula K. Parker, Flint Hill School's production of "Pride and Prejudice" included chemistry in all its relationships, and was filled with actors' unique takes on familiar roles.

The story tells of the Bennet family: five unmarried daughters, a matchmaking mother, and a put-upon father. When Mr. Darcy and his friend, both rich, eligible young men, move next door, Mrs. Bennet foresees marriages in the future. But Mr. Darcy is proud, and the Bennet's second daughter, Elizabeth, is prejudiced. A romance between the two seems impossible.

Flint Hill's production of "Pride and Prejudice" was steeped in the tradition of Austen's novel. The costumed stage crew smoothly conducted transitions between scenes. Actors consistently stayed in character, including those in the background, and a standout the entire play was the Bennet household. Family members played off of each other in distinct ways, and each character was a fully fleshed out person with an unmistakable personality and manner.

Two scenes in the second act truly represented the growing attraction between Elizabeth (Alexandra Wai) and Mr. Darcy (George Moacdieh). The first scene was the opening of the second act. With two spotlights trained on them, Wai and Moacdieh stood on opposite ends of the stage, taking turns narrating a letter from Mr. Darcy to Elizabeth describing a past misunderstanding. The subtlety of Wai and Moacdieh's growing emotions stood out on the bare stage, distinctly changing their character arcs for the second act. The second scene was at Pemberley, Mr. Darcy's estate. Elizabeth visited the house with her aunt and uncle, thinking that Mr. Darcy was away, and when he returned suddenly, Wai's flustered manner and confused feelings interacted well with the genteel and now welcoming Moacdieh.

Another relationship presented well was Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's, with a close connection seemingly developed over 25 years of marriage. Mr. Bennet (Thomas Norberg) brought to the role of the father a polished speaking style that could rise to high emotion when needed. Mrs. Bennet (Hannah Khan) had consistent energy in the role of annoying mother, balancing the restrained Norberg. A standout performance was Caroline Bingley (Ansley Bryan) who had chemistry with all the characters that she interacted with, even in the background. Although transitions were sometimes as long as the scenes, changes were conducted in a smooth manner. Some actors spoke quickly, making them hard to understand, but all actors were consistent and unique characters.

This production of "Pride and Prejudice" had a distinct way of changing scenes. The back lit stage would put costumed crew members in silhouette, making the movement of numerous props fun to watch. The many scene changes were handled well, with clean movements and no fuss.

Although it seems to be a simple story, Flint Hill School's "Pride and Prejudice" showed audiences that disagreeable first impressions could be removed by a second chance. And that's a message that still applies today.

Kristen Waagner
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Fairfax County Times

What defines the accomplished woman? Is it her talent for embroidery, dancing, and conversation? Or rather her air, countenance, and expression? It may be so for many women of the British Regency period, but for Elizabeth Bennet, it is the quality of her mind, the resiliency of her spirit, and the strength of her heart that defines a person. Exploring femininity and romance in nineteenth-century England, Flint Hill School delves into the literary world of Jane Austen with "Pride and Prejudice," a charming stage adaptation of the beloved romantic comedy of manners.

Many are familiar with Austen's canon of masterpieces; "Emma," "Sense and Sensibility," and "Mansfield Park" have captured the imaginations of countless readers. "Pride and Prejudice" is perhaps the best loved of her classic works, due to the countless adaptations to both screen and stage. A tale of friendship and family, the story follows Elizabeth Bennet, a headstrong, sensible heroine who values wit over wealth. When two single men of good fortune arrive in Hertfordshire, Elizabeth and her four sisters become entangled in a web of social intrigue, scandalizing affairs, and even true love.

Leading the show, Alexandra Wai created the quick-witted and sharp-tongued Elizabeth through a series of subdued, meaningful glances, knowing smirks, and well-placed eye rolls. Clever banter with Mr. Darcy, charismatically portrayed by George Moacdieh, built romantic tension that mounted with every interaction, coming to a head in their final, passionate scene together. As the story progressed, Wai showed her vulnerability remarkably, breaking down the walls around her emotions to reveal a tentative love for Mr. Darcy. In turn, Moacdieh transformed from the standoffish, arrogant elitist to the kind, awkward man that Elizabeth grows to love. The duo emphasized their respective fatal flaws of pride and prejudice, which, together, won the hearts of the audience.

The fiery dynamic between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy was juxtaposed with the comfortable squabbling of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Played by Hannah Khan, Mrs. Bennet's frivolous concern for her daughter's romantic exploits brought a layer of farcical humor to the performance, complementing Mr. Bennet's (Thomas Norberg) deadpan delivery. Underneath Norberg's stoic demeanor and Mid-Atlantic elocution, however, his love for his daughters truly shone through. Julianne Cuervo, as Lady Catherine de Bourgh, also gave a standout performance, her snobbish manner and fussy demands differentiating her status from the other characters, which was constantly a source of hilarity. Even when mentioned in passing by the ingratiating Mr. Collins (Andrew Hamilton), Lady Catherine's name drew laughs.

Technical attention to detail, especially among the running crew, was an asset of "Pride and Prejudice." Lighting against the cyclorama created silhouettes during every scene change, which, although frequent, featured costumed crew members who made sure each change went smoothly. The decorum of the crew matched the Georgian setting of the play with proper posture and etiquette, never drawing the audience out of the world of Hertfordshire's elite.

Flint Hill's rendition of the Austenian classic brings new life to the universally acknowledged truth: love can be found in the most unexpected places, if one can only learn to put aside their prides and prejudices.