Jessica Triolo
“But people themselves alter so much, that there is something new to be observed in them for ever.”
― Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
Unoriginal yet unique, Jon Jory’s enchanting new adaption of Jane Austen’s 1813 novel brings humor and romance to the stage of Theatre Jacksonville. “We channeled a minimalist approach for this set design, using simple props and natural shifts for the backdrops. We believe this will accentuate the caliber of acting within this cast,” says the play’s stage manager Ashley Jones. Pride and Prejudice, directed by Amy Canning, runs September 16th through October 2nd at Theatre Jacksonville in San Marco.
Florida’s longest running community theatre (est. 1919) held a rigorous audition process, gathering the best cast of local renowned actors for this summer classic, including Jacksonville native Britt Crumley, who plays Colonel Fitzwilliam. Crumley has been blazing a hot trail through Duval, as he also performs local improvisation and stand-up comedy, hosts multiple podcasts, and produces short films. Crumley described the audition process for this play as “extremely intimidating, exhausting, and terrifying,” but the most difficult part was just beginning as the three-hour nightly rehearsals began for those who made it. “We have consistently added drops of water into an empty glass for weeks now, and that glass will be overflowing into the theatre come show time. We’ve all worked extra hard to nail our roles to deliver the best performances. I’m confident we will bring this classic novel to life in a way that no one else has before. I’m excited to see the audience so amazed that they forget everything else and become a part of this story as it unfolds. This is not our play. This is everyone’s play,” says Crumley.
“I’m excited to see the audience so amazed that they forget everything else and become a part of this story as it unfolds. This is not our play. This is everyone’s play.”
Never a traditional performer, Crumley does not attribute his success to himself, but rather recognizes those around him who have influenced his journey. “My biggest inspiration is the real local legend, my dad. He taught me that a man makes his own way. His courage was true artistry. Now I’m part of an energetic team of people that have come together to create something relatable and extraordinary based on an old idea.”
“If you want to be great at something, practice it daily. Put in the work and go through the steps.”
Pride and Prejudice kicks off Theatre Jacksonville’s already jam-packed season of classic and contemporary tales that will be brought to the stage in imaginative ways, as well as the theatre’s Educational Outreach Program, which offers after-school and weekend classes for young aspiring actors in Jacksonville, grades 2-12. The volunteer-based theatre’s slogan “Little Theatre, Big Voice” is certainly manifested in the vision behind Pride and Prejudice. Crumley, along with the other cast members, have collaboratively brought their talented efforts on stage to passionately give inspiration to the local community of thespians, writers, and other enthusiasts. “If you want to be great at something, practice it daily. Put in the work and go through the steps. Don’t be afraid to change and grow. The journey is the adventure, and the steps you take amongst this journey should be treasured. Take a risk, and do something great today!”
See Britt Crumley and the rest of the cast in Pride and Prejudice soon. Friend Britt Crumley on Facebook: Britt Crumley. For more information on Theatre Jacksonville visit www.theatrejax.com/index.html, find them on Facebook and YouTube: TheatreJacksonville, and on Twitter: @TheatreJax.
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EVENT: The Summer Classic in San Marco, Pride and Prejudice, Adapted by Jon Jory
from the novel by Jane Austen
DATES/TIMES: September 16, 17, 22**, 23, 24, 25*, 29**, 30, October 1, 2*, 2016 – All performances 8pm except *Matinee performance 2pm, **Evening performance 7:30pm
VENUE: Theatre Jacksonville, 2032 San Marco Boulevard
TICKETS: $20-25
CONTACT: 396-4425, info@theatrejax.com
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