BWW Previews: Imagined Jane Austen Sequel, MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY Promises To Delight Fans And Newcomers This Holiday Season At American Stage

Whether you loved the characters of "Pride and Prejudice" or know nothing about them, you are sure to adore what director Stephanie Gularte calls a "romantic, holiday comedy."

"Mary Bennet in "Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly," makes its holiday debut at American Stage on November 28 - December 30.

Written by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, the charming imagined sequel to the classic story, "Miss Bennet" features versions of many familiar characters from 1815 England in the ancestral home of Mr. Fitzwilliam and Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy.

The Darcy's are hosting Christmas for their extended family. Among them are Elizabeth's bookish, awkward younger sister, Mary Bennet. During the visit, an unexpected guest sparks Mary's hopes for independence and the chance to be her own hero. This encounter brings about the possibility of an intellectual match and maybe even love for Mary.

"My vision for this show is to give our audience an experience in time that feels relevant to our world today," explained Stephanie. "It's a celebration of love, the holidays, and all things female. It's really quality storytelling and bringing people together for a family, holiday experience.

"This play has a fresh energy to it. It's so well-written and the dialogue is so smart. The characters are fun, funny, and heartwarming and touch all the chords - as an artistic director - that you want to bring to your audience this time of year."

Stephanie promises both heart-tugging moments and big laughs in "Miss Bennet" when we see how the characters in "Pride and Prejudice are imagined two years later.

"It's a fun world to be in. The actors have brought so much energy and talent to their roles. There is one particular romantic moment that gives me goosebumps in rehearsal."

This uplifting comedy, told with both contemporary wit and historic period style, promises to delight Jane Austen aficionados and newcomers alike.

"Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly" is engaging and a really great way to spend their holidays with their loved ones," said Stephanie. "It's all about the value of family, gratitude and love."

"Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly" is at American Stage, 163 3rd St N, St. Petersburg, FL on November 28-December 30. Learn more and buy tickets at http://americanstage.org/christmas/.