UPDATE: Jane Austen’s legacy shines bright as her works celebrate a monumental milestone—her 250th birthday—with the premiere of a new adaptation of Pride and Prejudice at Compass Rose Theater in Annapolis. This exciting production, directed by Madeline Austin, opens on November 14, 2025, and runs through December 14, 2025.
This adaptation, crafted by Emma Whipday, a UK-based playwright, captures Austen’s timeless humor and wit, making it more accessible for modern audiences. “I wanted to create an adaptation that retains the spirit of the original while ensuring new audiences can connect with the characters and plot,” Whipday stated.
The urgency of this adaptation lies not just in celebrating Austen’s birthday, but in reaffirming her relevance in today’s literary landscape. Whipday, who has previously adapted Austen’s Emma and Sense and Sensibility, expressed her passion for Austen’s intricate narratives and rich social dynamics. “Her characters leap off the page,” she remarked, emphasizing the profound impact of Austen’s storytelling.
In the upcoming production, Caleigh Riordan Davis will portray Elizabeth Bennet, navigating love and social pressures amidst a backdrop of family dynamics with her four sisters. Whipday aims to highlight the complexities of these relationships, especially the character of Mrs. Bennet, portraying her not just as an overbearing mother but as a woman facing societal challenges. “The stress of having five daughters in a world where women couldn’t earn a living is terrifying,” she noted.
Austin praised Whipday’s adaptation for its ability to distill the essence of the novel while eliminating unnecessary exposition. “It cuts to the heart of the novel and keeps the audience engaged, even if they are unfamiliar with the story,” she explained.
As the theater community gears up for this celebration, the impact of Austen’s work continues to resonate. Both Austin and Whipday expressed a longing for more from Austen, who passed away at just 41, having only completed six novels. Whipday highlighted the often-underestimated value of romance novels, noting how Austen’s work remains at the core of literary academia.
With Pride and Prejudice set to enchant audiences once again, the Compass Rose Theater, which recently wrapped a critically acclaimed production of Annie, aims to deliver another powerful performance that honors Austen’s legacy. Tickets are available on the theater’s website.
This adaptation not only celebrates a literary giant but also reinforces the enduring relevance of her themes in today’s world. Don’t miss the chance to experience Austen’s brilliance live in Annapolis.
