Pride and Prejudice in Pimlico

Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice was brought vividly to life over the weekend in an upbeat production by the Parish Players at Holy Apostles Hall in Pimlico, central London.

The sets were fantastic; the costumes beautiful, and it was a joy to watch the cast using the space so well. No one dominated a scene. They obviously enjoyed being together and were well directed by Eileen Sheedy.

Kate Peacock was superb as the domineering Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Claudia Penas and Simon Duffy were well cast as Elizabeth and Darcy. Gillian Econopouly as Mary Bennett did a very funny turn as a bad singer, winning a round of applause. Colin Lavender made a sympathetic Mr Bennet. Kevin Burke was just right as the disdainful parson Mr Collins.

Overall a very entertaining show. It is a shame it was only on for one weekend. This production deserves a longer run. One actress who saw the play, suggested it could be performed for schools - either as a complete work, or possibly used in workshops with individual scenes - where students could speak with some of the actors about their characters.