Review: Pride and Prejudice at Bolton Octagon Theatre is ‘witty, charming, and filled with romance’

Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Pride & Prejudice is witty, charming, and irresistibly funny – a fast-paced retelling of Jane Austen’s iconic novel that retains its romantic core while injecting plenty of modern flair.

The story follows the Bennet family as they navigate love, social standing, and sisterhood.

Pride & Prejudice at Bolton Octagon

Of course, nothing runs smoothly – especially for the two eldest sisters, Jane and Elizabeth, who find themselves falling for two of the most eligible (and complicated) bachelors in England.

While the show stays true to the heart of Austen’s original, it offers some clever tweaks – for instance, reducing the Bennet sisters from five to four, which only tightens the focus and sharpens the storytelling.

Staged in the round, the audience surrounds the performers, which creates an intimate and immersive experience.

An ‘ingenious’ set by Louie Whitemore

The set, designed by Louie Whitemore, makes ingenious use of limited space.

When I first walked in and saw the pianoforte, I gasped – a beautiful detail that immediately transported us into the world of the play.

Long stools were cleverly repurposed throughout for scene changes, showcasing both creativity and efficiency.

Whitemore also designed the costumes, which were spot on – elegant, era-appropriate, and subtly reflective of each character’s social standing.

His design work seamlessly brought the Regency era into a modern theatrical context.

A sharp and lively script

Hamill’s script is sharp and lively, capturing Austen’s humour and intelligence while adapting it for a new generation.

I recently read the novel for the first time and was struck by its timelessness – and this adaptation honours that.

Growing up in a Muslim household, I felt a deep connection to the themes of familial pressure and the expectation to marry well.

That’s why adaptations like Bride & Prejudice, the Bollywood version, also resonate so strongly.

Why do Jane Austin’s stories endure?

Austen’s stories endure because they reflect real, relatable struggles – especially for women – and Hamill does a brilliant job highlighting the boldness and wit of Austen’s heroines.

The cast was excellent across the board, but one standout for me was Ben Fensome, who played both Mr Wickham and Mr Collins.

As Wickham, he made hearts flutter (as he should), and as Mr Collins, he had the audience in stitches.

Playing two such different characters is no small feat, but Fensome nailed it – switching accents, body language, and demeanour so convincingly that it felt like watching two entirely different actors. His comedic timing was flawless, and his performance brought a whole new energy to the production.

This Pride & Prejudice is a joyful celebration of a beloved novel – smart, spirited, and full of heart.

Whether you’re a die-hard Austen fan or new to the story, you’ll find yourself laughing, swooning, and maybe even seeing the classic in a whole new light.

Tickets to see Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre

You can buy tickets to Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre by clicking here