Hannah Jarrett-Scott stars in the all-female production of Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of). Having first opened at Tron Theatre to an overwhelming audience response in Summer 2018, the production is now playing to rave reviews at The Criterion Theatre in the West End.
Men, money and microphones are fought over in this irreverent but affectionate adaptation, which includes pop classics such as Every Day I Write the Book, Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, I Got You Babe and You’re So Vain.
Five actresses portray the young female servants who retell one of literature’s most famous stories, and these same five actresses play every other character, as well as singing and playing instruments.
You’re appearing in Pride of Prejudice* (*sort of), what can you tell us about the show?
It’s a pure riot. The show was first made at the Tron in Glasgow. If you want a good night out come see the show. There’s something for everyone.
What is it about Isobel McArthur’s script that you find most exciting?
The range of characters you get to play as an actor. And the amount of moments you get to have fun. If you muck something up, you have a thousand opportunities to redeem yourself. It’s very fun to play.
Tell us about the characters you play, and what you enjoy most about playing them?
I enjoy playing Charles Bingley because he is so daft and joyous and he releases any nervous energy. Caroline his sister is the polar opposite. She is ‘extra’ as the young ones say these days. She is an excuse to be weird wild and wonderful on stage which you don’t often get the opportunity to be as a woman. Tillie is my base coat. The servant. She has my heart. And Charlotte… She breaks it.
You’ve been involved with the production previously, what’s changed for this move to the West End?
It’s back to the original version which makes it pretty tough going. It’s quicker and slicker than ever before. With some pretty speedy costume changes. Act one is non-stop. I don’t really have a break. Act two there is one moment where Tori and I go for a pee. But we have to be quick or Darcy will finish his letter and we need to get back to move a grandfather clock. I have more singing this time which is always fun.
Why do you think Jane Austen’s most iconic love story works so well in this all-female adaptation?
Because women are funny. And we should be given the opportunity to be so. Jane Austen would have loved this show. We as a company are not afraid to spell it out. Women had a tough deal in the regency era. No men are essential in the telling of this tale. This piece is absolutely a women’s voice.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Pride of Prejudice* (*sort of)?
Don’t do an ab work out beforehand cos you will be in pain for laughing. Have your hearts open and we will be right with you. If you start getting the feels for Darcy, that’s okay! There’s nothing wrong there, let it happen… See you out there.
