FERGUS – The last performance of Elora Community Theatre’s production of Jane Austin’s classic tale, Pride and Prejudice, took place on May 12 at the Fergus Grand Theatre. It’s a shame. A production of its quality could withstand a much longer run.
From the opening moments, when the curtains parted to reveal the beautifully designed and executed set, the audience was treated to a production that was professional, often hilarious and sometimes moving.
Adapted by Jane Kendall, the story is set in the 1800s and centres around independent-minded Elizabeth Bennett, enigmatic Mr. Darcy and a relationship that seems doomed before it begins. The romantic comedy’s co-directors, Deb Stanson and David Tanner, showed they are skilled and gifted in their craft, drawing strong performances from all 16 cast members.
Julie Goudie as Mrs. Bennett never seemed to miss a beat. Her comedic timing helped keep the production moving at a seamless pace. Cory Sanders as Mr. Bennett found the gentle humour his character applies in order to manage his well-meaning wife’s histrionics.
All five actors who played the Bennetts’ daughters were able to portray distinct personalities with conviction. The adage there are no small roles, only small actors rang true. Everyone who graced the stage engaged the audience with ability, clearly conveying their roles and thus the story. The dialogue in a period piece such as Pride and Prejudice can sometimes be difficult to pull off. Veteran actor Alex Kanarek of Rockwood conducted elocution seminars with the actors during the rehearsal process, and it paid off. Katy Chapman, who played Elizabeth Bennett, seemed especially adept at making the dialogue seem like second nature to her.
The costume team, led by Cathy Goudie (who also played the Bennett household servant Hill) created a look that complimented the set through the tones and lines of the costume pieces, adding to the overall romantic and fluid feel of the production. Co-director Tanner was also the technical director for the show. There was an elegant softness to the lighting that played well with the bright characters on stage.
This show was a delight to watch, and the near-capacity audience was appreciative of the time, talent and spirit ECT brought to the play.
