News Summary
Vanguard University’s Department of Theatre Arts is set to present ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,’ a heartwarming sequel to Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Running from November 20 to December 7, the production revisits beloved characters as they celebrate Christmas at Pemberley, focusing on Mary Bennet’s journey towards love and independence. With a talented cast and creative team, this family-friendly performance promises to blend humor and heartfelt moments, making it a perfect holiday treat for audiences of all ages.
Vanguard University to Showcase “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”
In Costa Mesa, Vanguard University’s Department of Theatre Arts is set to delight audiences with the presentation of “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley.” This charming production will run from November 20 to December 7, 2025, offering a fresh take on the beloved characters from Jane Austen’s classic novel, “Pride and Prejudice.”
Set two years after the original story, “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” welcomes back familiar faces, including Lizzy, Mr. Darcy, Jane, Mr. Bingley, and Lydia. The narrative unfolds at Pemberley, the estate of Lizzy and Mr. Darcy, as they host a Christmas celebration that quickly evolves into a tale filled with romantic aspirations and heartwarming encounters. The plot pivots around Mary Bennet, who experiences her own journey toward independence and love when an unexpected guest arrives, igniting hope for her future.
Production Details
The cast features talented actors such as Amanda Fagan, Ian James Miller, Shekinah Rainwater, Matthew Barge, Giana Garcia, Jordan Silva, Ruth Gray, and Nadia McGill. The production is directed by Preston Butler III, a distinguished graduate of CalArts with an M.F.A. in Acting. Butler is known for his rich acting experience in various prestigious venues, performing roles as diverse as Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X.
The creative team behind the scenes is equally impressive. Kaitlyn Campbell and Jim Huffman serve as Scenic Designers, while Lia Hansen takes charge of Costume and Makeup Design. The technical crew includes Kaitlyn Campbell as Technical Director, Jim Huffman as Assistant Technical Director, Anabelle Collins as Stage Manager, and Rylee Schmidt as Assistant Stage Manager. Lighting design will be provided by Garrett Spady, with the support of a dedicated technical staff.
A Family-Friendly Experience
“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” aims to encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season while appealing to audiences of all ages. The production seeks to provide an enjoyable experience that resonates with both long-time fans of Austen’s works and new viewers, through a blend of humor and heartfelt family dynamics, enhanced by the magic of Christmas.
Production Goals
Overall, this witty sequel promises to add a fresh dash of holiday cheer to Austen’s classic tale, with its engaging story filled with themes of love and laughter. The collaborative effort of the cast and crew indicates a strong commitment to delivering a memorable holiday experience that celebrates both tradition and the excitement of new beginnings.
As the performance dates approach, the anticipation is building for what is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition at Vanguard University, solidifying its place in the community as a haven for quality theatrical productions.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7NY: NYC Broadway Week 2025
- Wikipedia: Broadway
- Broadway World: Australian Theatre Festival
- Google Search: Upcoming Broadway Shows 2025
- TimeOut: Upcoming Broadway Shows in NYC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Musical Theatre
- People: All About Aaron Tveit
- Google Scholar: Theatre Performances 2025
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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