Feast on ‘Pride and Prejudice'

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BY AMY LAMPHERE/For the Journal Star

Forget the sage stuffing and pass on the pumpkin pie.

Thanksgiving has come to Lincoln early this year, in the form of "Pride and Prejudice," running at the Haymarket Theatre through Nov. 20.

There's no turkey in sight as director Bob Hall's surprising and seasoned cast takes the stage for this 2½-hour production.

Helen Jerome's adaptation remains fairly faithful to Jane Austen's tale of social warfare and the ability of love to conquer almost all.

Clearly, there's no conquering Leta Powell Drake's haughty, naughty Lady Catherine.  And that seemed to suit the audience.

The story follows the lives and loves of the Bennet sisters, marriageable women who share a roof and a touchy respect for one another, but little else.

One loves books; another goes ga-ga over men in uniform. "The pretty one," played by Kelli Chaves, is as sweet as she is lovely. 

And the sassy big sis, Liz, as played by prodigal Lincoln daughter Melissa Lewis, is pure pleasure to cheer on as she battles society — and those consumed by it — with wit and humor and a most admirable poise.

It's no easy feat, surrounded by the cast that Hall has found for this perfectly spare production. 

Mom and dad Bennet are most memorable in their patter, marvelously created by a dear George Hansen and the nutty Liz Banset, who also takes a turn as the production's costume designer, along with Jeanne Marlette.

Lewis spars with Haymarket director Fred Stuart, who plays her "prideful" love interest, Mr. Darcy.  Stuart's turn on stage, rather than behind the scenes, is warmly received.

Other notable performances include Brad Boesen, as the Adam Sandler-inspired pastor, Mr. Collins; Nora Smith's flighty Lydia; Lettie Van Hemert as the twisted sister who nearly spoils the love potion brew; and the ever-wonderful Steve Gaines in a pivotal expository role as Fitzwilliam.

Margy Ryan's easy charm as Mrs. Hill and Mrs. Gardiner provided a welcome narration and buffer to the Bennet's emotionally charged, estrogen-filled household.

Bosomy, empire-waisted dresses on the ladies and the dapper waistcoated men — not to mention that military man — make for handsome scenery against the beautifully rendered panels that line the back of the stage.

The English countryside that provides the city mouse-country mouse contrast so key to the story is quietly evoked through Hall's simple, earthy scenes.