In her second novel, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen writes, “It is very often nothing but our own vanity that deceives us.” A story that has stood the test of time, Ms. Austen’s classic was published in 1813 and is widely regarded as one of the most popular novels in English literature. The lessons on vanity, integrity and love have transcended print, and adaptations of Pride and Prejudice have been brought to life on screens big and small, and on stages across the world.

One such stage exists in the Wean Studio Theatre in Blair Academy’s Armstrong-Hipkins Center for the Arts, where the Blair Academy Players will take on Kate Hamill’s rendition of the classic tale for three nights only, October 23 to 25, at 7:30 p.m. each evening.

This isn’t your typical Austen revival. Vibrant, unexpected, loud and undeniably modern, this spirited take on Pride and Prejudice reimagines the chaos and comedy of chasing (or dodging) romantic destiny. Lizzy Bennet (played by Penny Wardwell ’27)—our sharp, unfiltered heroine—faces relentless expectations from every direction. Still, can she ignore her feelings when the ever-irritating, oddly compelling Mr. Darcy (Jimmy Gibbons ’26) keeps reappearing with maddening persistence?

The fall play marks the first Blair production for Director of Theatre L’Oreal Carter, who is no stranger to this beloved tale. Mary Bennet/Caroline Bingley was the last role Mrs. Carter stepped in as a professional actor in the co-production between Arkansas Repertory Theatre and Baltimore Center Stage, before transitioning into her teaching role. At Blair, this character has been taken up by senior Josie Tetteh ’26.

“This show wouldn’t be what it is without the creativity from the individual minds behind it,” Penny shares. “Mrs. Carter created a space where we could make the characters our own, and the Players make every space feel judgment free. We all are empowered to make bold decisions and fail in front of everyone until we succeed.”

Through the theatre program, Blair students are learning lessons that extend beyond the lights of the stage. Mrs. Carter brought this story to Blair students because of the messaging that aligns with the Five Fundamentals of the School, particularly “Be curious and suspend judgment” as well as “Know yourself and practice honesty.” Like many young people today, Ms. Austen’s characters wrestle with questions of class, privilege and self-perception.

“At the heart, this is a love story,” Mrs. Carter explains. “On the outskirts, it’s about the barriers in the way of expressing those feelings.”

In Ms. Austen’s famous words, don’t let your vanity deceive you—secure your tickets to Pride and Prejudice today and support the amazing community that contributed to the production’s success.