RISE Presents PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Rhode Island Stage Ensemble (RISE) delves into the age of gilded romance and strict societal rules with its next production, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, March 16-18 and 23-25.

The story brings the audience to a time when marrying well was a woman's only way to thrive. Yet, Elizabeth Bennett has no care for societal mores and dictates. She thinks she knows exactly what the world and everyone in it is about. Meanwhile, the cold, statuesque Mr. Darcy walks through life perceiving the world and the people in it as marble sculptures. For him, the lines of class and character are absolute and must not be crossed. Can they remove the lenses that color their perceptions of the world so they can see the truth and beauty beyond limited views and, dare it be said, find true love?

Helen Jerome's adaptation of Austin's much-loved classic is directed by Woonsocket native Amy Simard-Bukowski. The cast hails from Rhode Island and beyond, with Heather Buckley of East Greenwich, RI as Elizabeth and Galen Auer of Providence, RI as Mr. Darcy. Also featuring the local talent of Jason Burns (Providence, RI), Anne Wareham (Greenville, RI), Brittney Simard (Woonsocket, RI), David Brunell (Warwick, RI), Elizabeth Nelson (Franklin, MA), Emily Partington (Cumberland, RI), Graham Stokes (Exeter, RI), Jeffry Bukowski (Shelton, CT), Katie O'Conner (Taunton, MA), Mary Case (Warwick, RI), Maureen Noel (Barrington, RI), Mike Capalbo (Cumberland, RI), Nichole LaBresh (Manville, RI), Nicholas Tvaroha (Woonsocket, RI), Rose Linnell (Bellingham), and Shannon McMillan (Pawtucket, RI).

Performances will take place at the RISE Playhouse, 142 Clinton St. Shows are March 16, 17, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m., and March 18 and 25 at 2 p.m. A talk-back session will follow the March 18 show. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $16 for children, seniors, students and the military; order them at www.ristage.org.

Currently in its 12th season, RISE is a non-profit theater focused on education and community, offering musicals, cabarets, children's shows and more to inspire its audiences.