PRIDE AND PREJUDICE Plays Hedgerow Theatre, Now thru 6/16

As it continues to celebrate its own 90th birthday, Hedgerow Theatre is bringing together present and returning company members to stage Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which marks its 200th anniversary this year, from tonight, May 9 to June 16.

Jon Jory's fast-moving adaptation of Austen's 1813 classic captures all of the wit and romance in the brilliant comic novelist's commentary on 19th-century British society. Critics have said that Jory retained Austen's smart dialogue while crafting "an exceptionally clear, funny and moving version" of the story of the five Bennet sisters and their matchmaking mother's efforts to find them suitable husbands. A wealthy new neighbor, Mr. Bingley, and his aristocratic friend, Mr. Darcy, seem like perfect prospects for the two oldest daughters, but there are societal pressures and negative first impressions to be overcome before any lasting relationship can develop.

The nine-person cast features Hedgerow veterans Zoran Kovcic and Susan Wefel as Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, third-year company member Rebecca Cureton as Elizabeth Bennet, and returning company member Carl Smith, last seen at Hedgerow inGodspell, as Mr. Darcy. Also appearing in multiple roles are current Acting Fellows Mahogany Walker and Joel Guerrero, and returning actors Meredith Beck (Educating Rita), Maryruth Stine (The Crucifer of Blood) and Andrew Parcell (Deathtrap). Smith and Beck also appeared together in the critically acclaimedAn American Tragedy. Pride and Prejudice is directed by the theatre's Associate Artistic Director JaRed Reed.

Following a preview tonight, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., performances will be held at Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. There are also two Wednesday matinees scheduled at 2 p.m. on May 22 and June 22, which include a complimentary tea.

Adult ticket prices for Friday, Saturday and Sunday shows are $32, Thursday shows are $29, and Wednesday matinees are $25. There is a $3 discount for seniors; tickets for students with valid ID and children under 18 are $10. Previews are $20, and no other discounts apply. For groups of 10 or more, tickets are $18 for adults and $16 for seniors. Prices include all fees and are subject to change. For reservations, call 610-565-4211, or visit www.hedgerowtheatre.org. Hedgerow Theatre, America's First Repertory Theatre, is at 64 Rose Valley Road, in Rose Valley (near Media).

Pictured: Susan Wefel, Zoran Kovcic, Maryruth Stine, Mahogany Walker, Meredith Beck, Andrew Parcell, Carl Smith, Rebecca Cureton and Joel Guerrero