The Pumphouse Theatre is the perfect classic yet quaint setting for a period piece. With the geese meandering around Lake Pupuke at the setting of the sun, you can almost fancy yourself taking a stroll through the grounds of Pemberly. Mr and Mrs Gardiner, Terry Hooper and Christine Van Wijk, welcome guests and wish us a lovely evening.

We are welcomed to Longbourne by an enthusiastic Mr Bennet, who delivers exposition directly to the audience. His example is followed throughout the evening by all the characters, who offer useful and comic explanatory asides either individually or as a group.

The plot moves smoothly and quickly. I appreciate the crafting required to convert a novel of a many-months’ timeline into a two hour play so gracefully. As expected the sense of timeline is distorted, potentially making it difficult for audiences new to Austen’s classic to follow. However this adaptation, by Jon Jory,* is not forced or laboured All major events are attended to with as much clarity to character and plot development as possible.

Most of the dialogue is lifted from the novel, and audiences can expect to relish in all their favourite quotes well delivered. Also true to the original are the portrayals of characters who are both caricatures and social comments. Their impact is not lost in translation with the exception of Lizzie who, in Act One, is more stroppy than vivacious. Aimee Olivia (Elizabeth Bennet) is however comfortable and confident throughout, displaying an effective attention to her physicality.

Mr Darcy brings the initial dourness and later charm, although is visibly nervous, perhaps because this is Sam Goodchild’s first stage performance in New Zealand. Their chemistry wavers at times but is nonetheless ultimately satisfying.

Particular standout performances are Sue Golding as the commanding and condescending Lady Catherine DeBourgh, Zachary Robinson as self-righteous and verbose Mr Collins, and Denise Snoad who captures the drama of Mrs Bennet with ease.

There are occasions throughout where it is a challenge to hear the actors, whether for lack of projection or background music that is slightly too loud.

Staging choices throughout are traditional yet effective. The set is simple: a handful of elegant settees and writing desks which for the most part, bar one rogue yet highly entertaining tree, are seamlessly shifted to create the various estate settings. Likewise the costuming, the clincher of any period piece, is lovely and convincing.

This performance of a well-known classic is altogether entertaining and satisfying. A well-executed and safe period piece definitely recommended for fans of Austen’s work.
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*As the Producing Director at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Jon Jory directed over 125 plays and produced over 1,000 during his 32-year tenure.
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