2 Proud 2 Prejudiced: An Austen-tatious Cabaret - Review

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Mon 10 Oct 2022 - Sun 16 Oct 2022

The 'teeny tiny production company' (self-proclaimed) known as Picked Last for Sport has another success on its hands with their clever, witty and very funny show 2 Proud 2 Prejudiced , currently playing as part of Melbourne Fringe .



The show is a celebration of 200 years of Jane Austen, spoofing the story of the classic Pride and Prejudice. It tells the story from the perspective of the five Bennet sisters, with each getting their moment in the spotlight along the way.

On stage are Sarah Edgar, Ryan Smith, Sean Sully, Melissa Viola and Freya Long, with special appearances from 'Mr Darcy'. The five performers not only play the sisters but jump into other ancillary roles as well. Some slick accessory changes assist with the transition.

Sean Sully on keyboard provides the main musical accompaniment, while also playing the role of nay-saying sister Mary. My partner observed that Sean's portrayal of Mary was reminiscent of the narrator in The Rocky Horror Show - dark, brooding and rather sinister - and a stark (and very amusing) contrast to the relatively saccharine Austen-esque character of the other sisters.

Off stage support is critical to the success of the show too, with sound and lighting technicians absolutely hitting the mark.



2 Proud 2 Prejudiced is cleverly written, well paced and skilfully executed. The energy is consistent throughout the show, and the timing is impeccable. And it's funny as heck. It had me laughing throughout.

As I've observed with a previous Picked Last for Sport show - The Broken Mill - the original songs somehow have a ring of familiarity about them that soon has you tapping along, yet they have been freshly written for this show. Sarah Edgar's beautiful singing voice lifted an already high quality show to another level.

I should mention there is some audience participation, although our 'volunteer' here didn't seem too fazed.



2 Proud 2 Prejudiced is a laugh-out-loud delight and highly entertaining. Make sure it's on your Fringe viewing list!



2 Proud 2 Prejudiced plays at The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne at 7pm each night until Sunday 16th October.

Tickets are: full - $37, concession - $33 (plus booking fee).

Click here to buy tickets online (tickets also available at the door if not sold out).

The Butterfly Club is a licensed venue - under 18s can only attend if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 2 Proud 2 Prejudiced is rated M. The show involves sustained bright lights, moderate coarse language, and some infrequent/low pressure audience interaction.

The images in this article were taken by the writer.

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!date 10/10/2022 -- 16/10/2022
%wnmelbourne