Most days after school, stage lights flicker on, classical music can be heard, and the voices of La Salle thespians echo throughout the theater, all in preparation for the upcoming fall show, “Pride and Prejudice.”  

The show, which runs from Friday, Nov. 7, to Sunday, Nov. 16, is an adaptation of Jane Austen’s well-known novel by the same name. Set in rural England during the early 1800s, it focuses on the relationships and daily struggles of the Bennet family, particularly the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and the wealthy Mr. Darcy.  

“It’s a fun story,” theater teacher Mr. Micheal Shelton said, who directs the show. Even though it’s set around 200 years ago, “there’s something about the characters and how they feel,” he said. “I think [it] is super relevant for us today.”

To prepare for the show, students rehearse from 4:30 to 6:30 most days after school — building sets, practicing lines, and learning choreography or blocking for the show’s various dances and scenes. 

For junior Keira Olson, who plays Jane Bennet, the choreography-centered rehearsals are the most enjoyable.

“We all go up on stage, do some stretches and then the choreographer, Lisa Allison, explains what we should be doing and walks us through the steps,” she said. “It’s really fun.”

Senior Miles Timberlake, who plays the role of Mr. Darcy, expressed that the show would not be what it is if not for the theater’s supportive community. 

“It’s just so strong there, and everyone supports each other,” he said. “The only reason we manage to put on such remarkable performances is because of the community itself.” 

Not only has theater brought people together into a close-knit community, but it has also taught many of those involved skills they said are important to be successful outside of La Salle. 

One lesson that senior Molly McKinlay learned through theater is “how to work with other people,” she said, because “you’re all the same.”

McKinlay plays one of the female leads, Elizabeth Bennet, who she described as “very fierce,” and “definitely kind of a diva” — two reasons why she enjoys the role so much. 

La Salle theater has put on many productions in the past, but as described by Mr. Shelton, there are several things that set “Pride and Prejudice” apart from the shows of the past.

“The big thing, at least for our actors… is that it is a more classical piece,” he said. “There’s a lot more language for the actors to work with, and because it is a piece that is set in England, they have been working on British accents.” 

However, he said this is not seen as a challenge to the theater program but rather an opportunity to grow and learn more about different styles of acting and implementing new skills. 

“From an educational standpoint, it’s a lot different from what we’ve done in the past,” Mr. Shelton said. “I think it’s a great opportunity, not just for our actors, but for the community as well.”

Sophomore Akil Pinney, who plays Mr. Bingley, explained how he hopes his preparation for the fall play will pay off. “I feel like we’ve been working really hard on it,” Pinney said, inviting anyone who is interested to come and watch. 

Mr. Shelton also expressed his encouragement for viewers to come and watch, and mentioned how the show is for anyone who enjoys a romantic-comedy with lots of drama, fun, music, and dancing. Tickets are available for purchase through La Salle’s official website.

“Anybody here that’s interested in having a good time and seeing some fun dancing and music … I think they would enjoy being a part of the show,” he said.