News Summary
Vanguard University is set to present a holiday production of ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,’ a delightful sequel to Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Directed by Preston Butler III, the play explores themes of love, family, and independence as the Bennet sisters reunite for festive celebrations at Pemberley. With a talented cast and dedicated crew, this production promises to engage audiences across generations with its blend of classic wit and deeper exploration of family dynamics.
Vanguard University is set to stage a heartwarming holiday production of “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley.” The performances will run from November 20 to December 7, 2025. This play serves as a festive sequel to Jane Austen’s beloved classic, “Pride and Prejudice.”
Directed by Preston Butler III, the production aims to encapsulate the themes of love, laughter, and family in a Christmas setting. It revisits the Bennet sisters two years after the events of Austen’s original work, providing a fresh perspective on their lives as they come together for the holiday celebrations at Pemberley.
The characters include Lizzy, Mr. Darcy, Jane, Mr. Bingley, Lydia, and Mary Bennet. Notably, Mary Bennet, often perceived as the overlooked sister, receives a significant focus in this sequel. The storyline allows her to explore her independence and pursue love in ways previously unseen.
Anticipation is building as the sisterly bond takes center stage, with the family arriving early to prepare for a series of holiday festivities. The play’s narrative promises to blend classic Austen wit with a deeper exploration of family dynamics and personal aspirations.
The cast comprises talented actors, including Amanda Fagan, Ian James Miller, Shekinah Rainwater, Matthew Barge, Giana Garcia, Jordan Silva, Ruth Gray, and Nadia McGill. Behind the scenes, a dedicated crew is essential to bringing this production to life. The scenic design is developed by Kaitlyn Campbell and Jim Huffman, costume and makeup design by Lia Hansen, and lighting designed by Garrett Spady. Key crew roles include Kaitlyn Campbell as Technical Director, Jim Huffman as Assistant Technical Director, Anabelle Collins as Stage Manager, and Rylee Schmidt as Assistant Stage Manager.
In terms of production staff, Susan K. Berkompas serves as the Artistic Producing Director, with Natalia Isabel Elizalde as Assistant Director, Alyssa Kammerer as Production Manager, and Lily Hinojosa as Theatre Manager. The collaborative effort of the cast and crew showcases a commitment to delivering a captivating theatrical experience.
Throughout its duration, “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” will explore vital themes such as love, family, and personal growth, resonating with audiences who cherish classic literature. The direction of Preston Butler III, notable for his experience in both acting and directing, guarantees a presentation that intertwines the joyous spirit of the holidays with profound storytelling.
This production holds the promise of appealing to multiple generations, inviting everyone to share in the festive atmosphere and delightful characters that Jane Austen fans have come to adore. As December approaches, the excitement around this holiday play at Vanguard University is palpable, making it a must-see event for lovers of theater and Austen’s enduring legacy.
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HERE Resources
Vanguard University to Present ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley’ This Holiday Season
Vanguard University’s Holiday Production of Miss Bennet
Additional Resources
- BroadwayWorld
- Google Search: Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley
- Houston Chronicle
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jane Austen
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Google News: Theater Reviews
- Bay Area Reporter
- Google Scholar: Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley
- Mercury News
- Wikipedia: Christmas in Theater
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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