News Summary
Vanguard University’s Department of Theatre Arts will stage ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,’ a festive sequel to ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Directed by Preston Butler III, the play runs from November 20 to December 7 and focuses on love, laughter, and family during the holiday season. Audiences will reconnect with beloved characters as Mary Bennet embarks on a journey of self-discovery two years after the original story, set against the backdrop of Christmas festivities at Pemberley.
Costa Mesa, CA – Vanguard University’s Department of Theatre Arts will present the holiday production “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,” running from November 20 to December 7, 2025. This play serves as a heartwarming sequel to Jane Austen’s beloved novel, “Pride and Prejudice.”
The production is directed by Preston Butler III, who describes it as a festive tale that emphasizes love, laughter, and family during the Christmas season. With a focus on holiday cheer, the play encourages audiences to come together with loved ones and celebrate the joys of Christmas.
“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” is set two years after the events of “Pride and Prejudice.” The story revisits cherished characters such as Lizzy, Mr. Darcy, Jane, Mr. Bingley, and Lydia, while also delving deeper into the character of Mary Bennet. Once seen as a spinster, Mary embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking both independence and the possibility of love.
The play unfolds at the Darcys’ estate, Pemberley, where Lizzy and Mr. Darcy host Christmas festivities. Lizzy’s sisters arrive earlier than expected for holiday preparations, setting the stage for a blend of family dynamics and festive spirit.
A diverse cast brings the story to life, featuring talents such as Amanda Fagan, Ian James Miller, Shekinah Rainwater, Matthew Barge, Giana Garcia, Jordan Silva, Ruth Gray, and Nadia McGill. Additionally, the production boasts skilled designers and crew members, including scenic designers Kaitlyn Campbell and Jim Huffman, costume and makeup designer Lia Hansen, and lighting designer Garrett Spady. The technical team also includes Technical Director Kaitlyn Campbell, Assistant Technical Director Jim Huffman, and Stage Manager Anabelle Collins, among others.
Preston Butler III, who holds an M.F.A. in Acting from CalArts, brings a wealth of experience to the direction of this production. He has received awards, including Best Actor for the play “Pass Over,” and has performed on international stages and at well-known theaters. His screen debut occurred on the popular show “NCIS.”
The collaborative effort behind this production involves management and marketing teams working diligently to ensure the show’s success. “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” aims to provide a family-friendly entertainment experience that resonates across multiple generations, making it an ideal choice for holiday outings.
As the event approaches, individuals interested in arts writing and local arts coverage are encouraged to connect with the BroadwayWorld Community, fostering a greater appreciation for cultural events in the area.
This engaging production promises to delight audiences with its charming story and beloved characters, enhancing holiday celebrations in Costa Mesa and beyond.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- BroadwayWorld: Miss Bennet Christmas at Pemberley
- Wikipedia: Pride and Prejudice
- BroadwayWorld: Interview with Director Preston Butler III
- Google Search: Miss Bennet Christmas at Pemberley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jane Austen
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
