Image: Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley / Dianna Lewis Photography
Theatre

Gallery 7 Theatre presents ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley’ in Abbotsford

Dec 3, 2023 | 6:00 AM

ABBOTSFORD — This holiday season, Fraser Valley theatre enthusiasts and Jane Austen devotees are in for a festive treat as Gallery 7 Theatre brings to the stage “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,” a delightful sequel to the classic Pride and Prejudice. Written by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, the production is set to run from December 15 to 23 at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford.

Ken Hildebrandt, Gallery 7 Theatre’s Artistic Director, is thrilled to bring the production to the stage. “Jane Austen fans, theatre fans, and those who love Christmas-themed productions are in for a treat with Miss Bennet,” said Hildebrandt. “The play explores themes related to family, romance, and friendship. It features charming characters, witty dialogue, some food for thought and all the feels one expects from a Christmas show.”

The storyline, set shortly after the events of Pride and Prejudice, focuses on Mary Bennet, the studious and brainy sister who finds herself fatigued by the duties of being the dutiful middle child. As the family gathers for Christmas at Pemberley, an unexpected guest sparks hope for Mary, leading her towards intellectual companionship, autonomy, and perhaps even love.

Image: Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley / Dianna Lewis Photography

Delaney Davis takes on the role of Mary Bennet, while Cameron McKerchar portrays her prospective suitor, Arthur de Bourgh. The ensemble cast includes Danielle Hackett as Lizzy Darcy, Spencer Danek as Fitzwilliam Darcy, Maria Van Herwaarden as Jane Bingley, Angel Duran-Heon as Charles Bingley, Victoria Zator as Lydia Wickham, and Lydia Gunnik as Anne de Bourgh.

Directed by Sarah Green, who has a longstanding association with Gallery 7 Theatre, the production boasts a talented team of design artists. Jeff Kiers handles set design, Maddison Willoughby takes care of props design, and Sarah Green and Audrey Boschmann collaborate on costume design and coordination. Elijah Kroeker manages sound design, while Ken Hildebrandt oversees lighting design. Alyssa Strauss is the stage manager.

“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” runs at 7:30 p.m. December 15 and 16 and then from December 20 to 23. Matinee performances are planned for December 16 and 23 at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.gallery7theatre.com or call 604-504-5940