MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY
by Lauren Gunderson and and Margot Melcon
Directed by Keira Fromm
TheatreSquared, AR, November 2018
A sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice set two years after the novel ends, Miss Bennet continues the story, only this time with bookish middle-sister Mary as its unlikely heroine. Mary is growing tired of her role as dutiful middle sister in the face of her siblings’ romantic escapades. When the family gathers for Christmas at Pemberley, an unexpected guest sparks Mary’s hopes for independence, an intellectual match, and possibly even love.
The score blends the period appropriate pianoforte with contemporary instruments and sounds. The pianoforte is used in transition music like a modern grand piano is used in film score - the melodies are lyrical and the chord progressions feel sweeping and romantic. Orchestral instruments give us a traditional context, while the synthesized bells and textures add a contemporary feel. In some moments we start in the Regency period, but end up progressing into some very modern sounding chords! The music should conjure a sense of timelessness, while still feeling upbeat and whimsical.
Scenic Designer: William Boles
Costume Designer: Ruby Kemph
Lighting Designer: Weston Wilkerson
Props Master: Brodie Jasch
Stage Manager: Shannon A. Jones
Photos: Wesley Hitt