It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a rehearsal room in possession of a good cast, must be in want of a photographer. It is also a truth universally acknowledged that all features about Pride And Prejudice from now until it opens later this month will inevitably start with a variation of this sentence, but, given our excitement at seeing such an iconic book on stage, we can no more be blamed for our predictability than Darcy can for his eternal scowl.
Thanks to photographer Johan Persson, who sneaked into rehearsals of the Regent’s Park Open Air theatre’s forthcoming show to gain an insight into how the production is shaping up, we’ve been given the rare opportunity to see Darcy smile (as well as wear jeans), with David Oakes positively beaming as he prepares to take on the iconic role, while Jennifer Kirby gets busy practicing her dancing skills for one of Netherfield’s famous balls, no doubt. Meanwhile, Jane Asher appears to already be perfectly in character, looking suitably intimidating as Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
The scandal, sexual tension, matchmaking and society battles will commence when the shows begins previews on 20 June.
Photos:
David Oakes as Mr Darcy
Jennifer Kirby as Elizabeth Bennet
Deborah Bruce and company
Eleanor Thorn as Lydia Bennet
Jane Asher as Lady Catherine de Bourgh
David Oakes as Mr Darcy
Jane Asher as Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Leah Brotherhead (Mary Bennet and Miss de Bourgh)
Jennifer Kirby as Elizabeth Bennet
Rob Heaps as Mr Bingley and David Oakes as Mr Darcy