A still from the play
Her comic timing brings a novel energy to a story that is over 200 years old. Mail us at [email protected] -Anvita Singh You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Delhi | Silver Rate in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi | Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Petrol Price in Delhi | Diesel Price in Delhi | CNG Price in Delhi | LPG Price in Delhi Stay updated with the latest Delhi news. It is a truth universally acknowledged that not every adaptation of a classic can live up to the expectations attached to it. A recent musical adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice by the Theatre For A Cause (TFAC) group succeeds, albeit in parts. The opening sequence sees Elizabeth Bennet dancing gaily with her father, Mr Bennet, to a rather lovely rendition of Bart Howard’s Fly Me to the Moon . Enter Mrs Bennet, announcing that a ball is to take place in honour of Mr Bingley and his team’s arrival. Almost immediately, Mrs Bennet thinks that her elder daughter Jane should present herself as a prospective match. And so the ten steps of a Victorian courtship that ultimately leads to a union begins. Dramatic and borderline greedy – actor Pratibha’s version of the annoying Mrs Bennet is a delight. From almost fainting at every new piece of information, to her bluntness of speech; the tiniest nuance of the character is embodied with utmost sincerity. One could very well ask, what could be so exciting about a narrative that has been retold so many times over the years? TFAC’s play works as a playful musical. But these interventions also somehow interrupt its flow. the performances also feel like individual set pieces instead of being part of a cohesive whole While the dancers bring a certain vigour to Austen’s familiar world. As the lights shine and dancers begin throwing graceful shapes on the floor, Bingley leaves town without anything but a letter to Jane. A singer begins singing Miley Cyrus’ Flowers , the Grammy-winning song on self-love. Suddenly, one could feel the entire mood of the auditorium shift, shoulders swaying to the beats as some even sing along to the lyrics. But Jane feeling spurned and then embodying self-love feels like an awkward sidenote which is never addressed. The song works emotionally on its own, but feels disconnected from Jane’s journey. One of the most interesting segments apart from the musical elements is Wickham’s dramatic entry. Wickham’s regiment makes its way through the audience, catching everyone by surprise. It is one of the moments where the theatricality works particularly well, using the space rather than simply presenting another musical number. The production has winning moments, especially the bits where it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The singers, dancers and the actors playing Mr, Mrs Bennet and Mr Bingley add life to an all too familiar tale. However, the proposal ultimately worded by Mr Darcy to Lizzy leaves an odd aftertaste as it cuts abruptly and concludes on The Beatles’ I Wanna Hold Your Hand . Want us to review your play? Download the TOI App.
