Mrs. Bennet, right, played by Daphanne Peters, congratulates her “favorite daughter” Lydia, played by Hann Ferguson, center, while Lizy Bennet, left, played by Megan Meagher, protests. Photos by Shamaya Sutton

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - The Acting Company of Yuba City launched its first show of 2025 this past weekend with the opening of “Pride and Prejudice” by Kate Hamill. Hamill has become well known for her bold, feminist, and highly theatrical adaptations of classic literature, particularly works by Jane Austen. She specializes in fast-paced, comedic, and physically engaging reimagining’s that emphasize gender roles, social critique, and modern accessibility. Her plays often feature role-swapping, exaggerated humor, and fourth-wall-breaking moments, making them fresh and engaging for contemporary audiences.

“I really think this works well for modern theater and for newer generations with shorter attention spans,” said David Wheeler, the production director. “I chose this because the title has a good reputation, it will draw a crowd, and the script is accessible for new actors and can be produced on a small budget.”

Leading actors, Megan Meagher , left, and Clark Green share an onstage kiss as Lizzy Bennet and Mr. Darcy during The Acting Company’s final dress rehearsal of “Pride and Prejudice” on Feb. 13 in Yuba City. The show will continue its run through March 9. Photos by Shamaya Sutton 

Wheeler’s predictions on drawing a crowd were right. Auditions for the show, which occurred on Jan. 6 and 7, garnered some of the highest attendance for a non-musical production at the company in recent years.

Hamill’s script calls for eight actors, six of which double roles with some men playing women and vice versa. Due to the high turnout Wheeler thought it best to scrap the doubling concept and extend the cast to include 14 actors.

“We need to give young actors a chance to get experience, this is how you build your talent base up,” said Wheeler. “Most of these actors are brand new to the stage but they’ve really been a joy to work with and have taken direction so well.”

The cast of “Pride and Prejudice” at The Acting Company in Yuba City dance their way through a scene transition during their final dress rehearsal on Feb. 13. The show will continue its run through March 9. Photos by Shamaya Sutton 

More than half of the actors cast in this production will be making their Acting Company debut. The new faces include Camari Domingue, Noelle Dennison, Ben Little, Hann Ferguson, Kimber Sorensen, Aylar Hudaynazarova, Tia Green, and Nathan Galbraith. Others such as Josh Ruiz, Daphne Peters, and leading actress Megan Meagher are making their return after a long hiatus.

“It’s exciting to be back and I’ve really enjoyed working with all the talented people here,” said Meagher.

The Bennet sisters discuss love and marriage during The Acting Company’s final dress rehearsal of “Pride and Prejudice” on Feb. 13 in Yuba City. The show will continue its run through March 9. Photos by Shamaya Sutton 

Despite being a two-hour show, Pride and Prejudice seems to dance the time away. Scenes transition seamlessly into one another marked only by slight lighting dips and musical lilts. The language, while adapted, retains its authenticity while still being intelligible. The costumes and set have also been paired down, reflecting a sense of minimalism that actually works to enhance the essential tone of the period.

“Pride and Prejudice” will continue playing weekends at The Acting Company until March 9. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office, open noon to 2 p.m. on weekdays. The Acting Company is located at 815 B St. in Yuba City and can be contacted at 530-751-1100. For more information, visit actingcompany.org.