David Graham brings his final ‘Eric’ show of the year ‘Eric’s Pride And Prejudice’ to the New Vic in the latest edition to the long running and highly entertaining series.
This time it sees the trademark whacky take on Jane Austen’s Pride And Prejudice and finds ‘Eric Arcy’ invited to Mrs. Bennett’s ball along with every other eligible batchelor in the area (including Arcy’s friends Mr. Bradford and Mr. Bingley). Mrs Bennett is determined to marry off her five daughters and in true Eric style, hilarity and high farce ensue.
As with any ‘Eric’ production, the quality of the production and the music was fantastic. All cast multi-talented, singing, playing instruments and acting. The musical choices were spot on with ‘get up and dance numbers’ like ‘Roll Over Beethoven’ as well as some slower numbers, including a marvellous rendition of ‘I, Who Have Nothing’ by Laura Sheppard.
Carly Cook was fantastic again as Elizabeth Bennett with a brilliant rendition of Aretha Franklin’s ‘Think’ and also delivering some killer lines. Laura Sheppard returned as long-suffering Bev as well as a very funny Mrs. Bennett. Alan Howell continues his Eric run with great vocals on ‘Keep On Running’, lead guitar and his role as Mr. Bennett. And of course David Graham himself as both Eric and Mr. Arcy who was fabulous.
The cast were all marvellous and all our favourites from the book were there, Mr. Bingley, Mr. Bradford (Im sure he wasnt in the book!), Mr. Collins, Mary and Lydia. I don’t recognise who played Kitty or Jane though or whether they will be appearing in any further Eric productions (you’ll see when you get there!).
It’s fantastic entertainment and suitable for all ages. Once again families and extended families were there spanning multiple generations all enjoying the Eric phenomenon together. Everyone was on their feet long before the end singing, dancing and clapping along and the ovation at the end was definitely deserved.
Its another wonderful instalment to the Eric franchise with belting tunes, high farce, massively fun and is highly recommended. The show is on until 9th December and tickets are available here: https://www.newvictheatre.org.uk/productions/erics-pride-and-prejudice/
NB: David Graham did announce at the end of the show, the result of the vote at the last production as to which two shows are being revived next year as part of their 25th Anniversary special. I wont reveal those here, but we will put up an article when the run is finished to not spoil the surprise. Not withstanding, nobody will be disappointed and we will be looking forward to seeing those!
A special anniversary concert to mark 25 years of Eric is also on sale now in May 2024 and tickets are already selling fast and available here: https://www.newvictheatre.org.uk/productions/erics-25th-anniversary-concert/
