They say opposites attract. But pairing Jane Austen's world-famous 19th century love story with a soundtrack of 80s anthems sounds more madcap than a match made in heaven.
Not a bit of it! The organisers of Pride and Prejudice and 80's Hits were so overwhelmed by the response to the show's world premiere performances in Belfast, they immediately set about plotting the smash hit musical's return, with three shows now confirmed for Waterfront Hall Studio from Thursday 5th to Saturday 7th November.
Audience reaction to Pride and Prejudice and 80's Hits!
“Best show I've seen this year” “Five stars - I'm overwhelmed” “An absolutely brilliant show” “Every single song a gem” “A fantastic trip down memory lane” “Absolutely loving it” “Singing along, laughing and crying” “Great fun” "Very funny, lots of laughter."
You can watch it here! https://tinyurl.com/3hcuczaa
Audiences couldn't get enough of Belfast's newest musical sensation during the show’s sold-out run in May. Those who witnessed it demanded to see it again while countless others were left ticketless and disappointed.
As soon as the idea for the show was sewn in writer, producer and director, Kerry Rooney's head, he knew he was onto something:
"If you asked AI to suggest ideas for a musical it would never come up with something like this! It sounds a bit crazy on the face of it, but it really isn't. When I first sat down to come up with ideas for a new show, I wanted to develop it around a common thread that would resonate with audiences and tap into their life experiences... that would draw them into the show and generate a feel-good communal connection with the characters. A handpicked soundtrack of 80s iconic hits provided my answer."
"I've also worked as a radio presenter, and 80s music has always been a playlist staple. I've seen at firsthand how this genre has been the soundtrack of so many peoples' lives and how it is also beloved by younger generations. When the show premiered in May everyone was on their feet singing all the words to all of the songs."
Kerry added: "The music serves the story. The show’s other core ingredients include lots of sharp wit, dry humour, swooning romance and laugh-out-loud misunderstandings. But more than anything, the show is unapologetically fun!"
Pride and Prejudice and 80's Hits! is proving an irresistible cocktail appealing to Pride and Prejudice afficionados, Jane Austen fans, 80s music lovers and everyone looking for a magical night of musical theatre.
Pride and Prejudice and 80's Hits! is set to light up Belfast’s Waterfront Hall from Thursday 5th to Saturday 7th November.
Tickets at: https://www.waterfront.co.uk/w...
