Shakespeare NJ Presents New Pride and Prejudice Oct. 17

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey will present the world premiere of Bonnie J. Monte's new adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The will open October 17, with a run slated through November 19. The official opening is October 20.

Directed by Monte, the production features a number of The Shakespeare Theatre's leading players, including Victoria Mack as Elizabeth, David Andrew MacDonald as Mr. Wickham, Sean Mahan as Mr. Bingley, Michael Stewart Allen as Mr. Collins, Monique Fowler as Mrs. Bennet and Edmond Genest as Mr. Bennet. Rounding out the major roles are newcomers Marcus Dean Fuller as Mr. Darcy and Nisi Sturgis as Jane.

"Jane Austen's ever-popular romance chronicles the always delicious, often highly amusing and sometimes heartbreaking details of a turbulent and true romance between the witty and sensible Elizabeth Bennet, a gentlewoman of modest means, and the handsome and wealthy — but asocial — Mr. Darcy."

Post-play discussions with the cast and artistic staff will follow performances on Tuesday, October 24 at 7:30 and Saturday, October 28 at 2. A pre-play lecture will also occur before the Thursday, October 21 performance at 7. Tickets to the lecture are $5.

Performances are Tuesdays through Sundays, October 17 through November 19, on the company's Main Stage in Madison at 36 Madison Avenue (Route 124) at Lancaster Road (on the scenic Drew University campus).

Regular tickets are $28 to $50, with discounted preview performance and group rates. Call for information about student matinees. The first preview is pay what you can. For reservations, call (973) 408-5600, or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

The show will also be a part of the nationwide Free Night of Theatre campaign, providing free tickets to people otherwise unavailable to afford attending live theatre. For more information or for tickets, please visit www.jerseyarts.com.