Pride & Prejudice Auditions

We are so excited that you are considering Pride and Prejudice at the Exit 7 Theater for your next theatrical project!

  

Auditions: Monday September 29, 2025 and Wednesday October 1, 2025

We welcome all actors ages 16 or above to audition.

Callbacks will be by invitation only on Friday, October 3 at 6:30pm. 

 

Show Dates: February 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 2026       

Rehearsal Dates: Our read through will be in late October, and we will begin our full rehearsal process in November. We will typically rehearse on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00-9:00 and on Sunday afternoons/evenings. Tech Week will be February 1st-5th. There will be no rehearsal on Thanksgiving, or between the dates of December 23rd-January 4th.

 

Please note that the original version of Kate Hamill’s Pride and Prejudice has actors playing multiple parts. While we intend to separate these roles, we reserve the right to offer actors more than one part.

 

Brief Overview of the Play:

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife,” Lizzy Bennet laughs with the acuity and wit that has endeared her to generations of readers and, now, theatre goers alike. Jane Austen’s beloved classic novel is brought to fresh, fun new life in Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. There is little hope for the four Bennet sisters beyond “ensnaring” a wealthy future husband, but Lizzy dreams of more than the schemes and games of courtship. A young woman with a bright mind and free-spirit, she is determined to avoid the trappings of a loveless marriage while laughing at the foolish antics of others. When she meets the solemn Mr. Darcy, she immediately judges him to be all that she detests: proud, arrogant, rude and so without civility that she can hardly endure his presence. Lizzy comes to discover, however, that first impressions may not be all that they seem and that she must learn the true characters’ of others before jumping to harsh conclusions. Is there any way to grow past one’s prejudices? Even then, how can two partners ever be sure of their future happiness together? Hamill’s Pride and Prejudice is a delightful, zany, energetic take on the classic tale full of laughter, madcap characters, and heartfelt fun.

 

How to Sign Up:

1. Please sign up for an audition slot. Auditions will be 45 minutes in length and will consist of small group auditions. Once you have completed your 45-minute slot, you are free to go. Walk-ins are welcome and will be placed in the next available slot, but we highly recommend signing up in advance.
2. Please fill out the Audition Form in advance.

 

What to Prepare:

1. One monologue from the provided selection below
2. A resume and headshot (Exit 7 can also take a headshot for you)
3. Please wear movable clothing

 

Overview of the Characters:

LIZZY BENNET: Late 20s – early 30s. Clever, spirited; can be sharp-tongued and cynical. Gets flustered, which makes her klutzy. Prides herself on good judgment. Very very scared of marriage, after absorbing the lessons of her parent’s marriage.

DARCY: late 20s- early 40s. One of the richest men in England. Too proper for his own good; awkward in most social contexts. Prides himself on self-control and good judgment.

JANE BENNET: Late 20s/ early-mid 30s. The eldest and most beautiful Bennet daughter. Kind, idealistic, empathetic. Always tries to do the right thing.

BINGLEY: late 20s- 40s. Loves the world and the world loves him. Mr. Darcy’s particular friend. Shows the love and kindness of a golden retriever.

MRS. BENNET: 50s- late 60s. The matriarch of the Bennet family. Mostly a silly woman, of mean understanding and variable temper. Hypochondriac; when she’s upset, she fancies that she’s dying. The business of her life is to get her daughters married. She traumatizes her family with some regularity.

BENNET: 50s- early 70s. The patriarch of the Bennet family. Finds amusement in absurdity; often looks for a respectable escape from the chaos of his family life. Can be somewhat apathetic; probably a bit depressed, under everything, enjoys antagonizing. Disappointed in marriage.

MARY BENNET: Late teens-20s. The third Bennet girl. Violent and dark undertones, prone to pedanticism and sulking. A dark goth Bronte character trapped in an Austen world. Coughs to get attention, or to make a point, may fancy that she is dying.

LYDIA BENNET: 14 (Casting age 16+) The youngest Bennet. Lively, highly impressionable. Pretends she understands more than she does.

LADY CATHERINE: 50s-70s. Aristocratic Caesar-meets-drill sergeant. One of the richest women in England. Everything is beneath her, but nothing is beneath her notice. Capable of being quite casually cruel; thinks she gives excellent advice. Unused to defiance; accustomed to flattery.

WICKHAM: late 20s- early 40s. An unfairly handsome and charming gentleman serving as a Lieutenant in the local regiment. Probably a sociopath. Raised with Mr. Darcy, whom he resents. Known ladies man. 

MISS BINGLEY: 20s-30s. A very rich young woman, sister to Bingley. Fancies herself very witty. Determined to land Mr. Darcy, and despises Lizzy Bennet.

MR.COLLINS: late 20s-40s. Rector to Lady Catherine, whom he worships. Pedantic, obtuse man. The original mansplainer. Tries hard to be impressive and yet somehow never suceeds.

CHARLOTTE LUCAS: Late 20s-30s. Same age as Lizzy. A practical girl with a good sense of humor. Not from much money. A good supportive friend, focuses on the simple truths in life.

Monologue Selections:

All monologues may be performed by any age or gender for the audition process. Please feel free to change the pronouns as you choose. Please select a monologue from the following options that best shows off your personal range and acting style. Memorization is not required. If you feel able to do so, please prepare one of the following monologues using the standard British dialect (Received Pronunciation [RP], or Queen’s English, or BBC English).

 

MONOLOGUE 1: Performed by Mrs. Bennet

We could not be better positioned for victory, Mr. Bennet! Oh, Bingley admired Jane so openly- danced with her all evening, hadn’t a glance for another lady, Charlotte Lucas was BESIDE herself with nasty spiteful jealousy. And now to have Jane invited specifically to Netherfield Park, overnight! (Gets handed a letter) IT is from Jane! She says we should not expect her back today, for she has taken ill- and the doctor advises her quite seriously to rest. (beat) Oh, oh- isn't this WONDERFUL?! Send back word that Jane may stay as long as she likes! That she may stay FOREVER! (beat) She might as well be ill where it is advantageous.

 

MONOLOGUE 2: Performed by Lydia Bennet

I have done my duty for the family Mamma, for I HAVE LURED HOME A MOST MAJESTIC BEAST!? Yea, a gentleman. (beat) Why can't I bring strange men home? I was chaperoned! Mary was with me, and Lord knows she’s a stumbling block before the blind. I thought he might do it for you Lizzy, you're welcome! (turning to the man) Mr. Wickham I have SUCH a naughty proposition for you! I DEMAND that you come come COME escort us to Mr. Bingley’s ball on Tuesday. He’s Jane’s beau and you know, he is ever so rich. And though Jane will be spoken for, Lizzy is VERY available aren’t you, Lizzy?

 

MONOLOGUE 3: Performed by Mr. Collins

I tell you ladies, (bows) you young ladies, (bows) you young ladies, you young ladies of youth and grace, you lay-diez, (loses himself then comes back). It is a grave duty- to act as tutor of the spirit-essence …SOUL. But as a clergyman, it is my place to promote- establish- INSPIRE Charity- and I have been sent on this quest - mission- CRUSADE by none other than the most Righteous LADY CATHERINE de Bourgh. (says it again) LADY CATHERINE DE BOURGH. I flatter myself that my overtures are meritorious- creditable- COMMENDABLE, and that you will not reject, refuse-spurn this proffer-red..…olive…brrranch……I hope to couple with all my cousins in the course of the evening. I may make this plea-assertion- CLAIM to you, I think; for we are RELATIONS.

 

MONOLOGUE 4: Performed by Miss Bingley

“All ladies accomplished?”. Charles, whatever can you mean? No woman can be called “accomplished” who doesn’t possess a mastery of music, needlework, and the languages. And EVEN THAT is nothing if she does not know when to speak. And when to hold her peace! The Accomplished woman is irreproachable. An elegant ornament in any room, a sparkling delight to any eye, a flawless vessel into which the confidences of the greatest men may be safely poured! (strikes a pose)

 

MONOLOGUE 5: Performed by Mr. Wickham

In normal conversation, Miss Elizabeth, I would never break my silence. But since we are being so …naughty: (he leans in close) Mr. Darcy’s father was my godfather. He loved me as another son, and he promised me that when I came to manhood, I would inherit a most valuable living. But I am afraid that after he died… that living was given elsewhere. I assume Mr. Darcy was jealous of my relationship with his father- may he rest in peace. (angrily) He descended to thievery all because of his pride. (changing tune) But all that may be, I have sworn NEVER to speak ill of him, in memory of my beloved godpapa. (Beat) I must thank you for allowing me to unburden myself to you Miss Elizabeth.

 

MONOLOGUE 6: Performed by Charlotte Lucas

Mr. Collins has gone to Lucas Lodge to ask consent from my father. Lizzy absolutely refused him. He did come to select a wife. And I was…there. I scarcely know him, a dance or two, a little conversation. We’ve been thrown together a bit, and that is all most couples have. (beat) My parents have no money, I shall have no dowry, and I’m not -well, you and I, we’re not exactly “Jane’s” (meaning beautiful) are we? The clock is ticking. Marriage is a serious matter and ought to be considered rationally. (beat) There doesn’t need to be any awkwardness between us, does there? We will soon laugh at this, as we do everything else! You will visit me in Kent once I’m married, won't you? You won't abandon me just because I’ve stepped out of the line?

 

MONOLOGUE 7: Performed by Mr. Darcy

Bells. Bells. They will never ring if they are made imperfectly, you know. Weak metal, careless manufacturer, and they never shall sound as they should. But if they are cast of stronger stuff or quality- you ring them once and you can't control the vibration can you? They just go and go however they will once they are struck, and nothing can stop them! (begins to pace) And whether they sound the alarm or benediction, they CANNOT be UNRUNG! They ring and ring until the energy is spent, or they CRACK! They ring to demand! Attention must be paid! Something is happening! Something beyond our control, something arranged over our heads has CHANGED! IN VAIN I HAVE STRUGGLED! MY FEELINGS WILL NOT BE REPRESSED! YOU MUST ALLOW ME TO TELL YOU HOW ARDENTLY I ADMIRE AND LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU! In spite of all my endeavors, I'm yours entirely. Miss Bennet- you win. 

 

MONOLOGUE 8: Performed by Elizabeth Bennet

Mr. Darcy will you NOT argue with me for once it was MINE (referring to fault), it was MINE! You do these perfectly honorable deeds, sir, and say these beautiful things, despite not being good at talking; really you seem soo…! But then you do other things which are quite- you act in a very appalling manner! And I can’t think around you and I can’t see straight and IIiiIII talk too MUCH- and no! NO! I meant to be serious, now! (she takes a deep breath) I meant- I MEAN to apologize! I am sorry for several-many-not all-but some- things. And I don't want you to be ruined! I don't want you to be the laughing stock of the world, so you just leave! Now! Please!

 

MONOLOGUE 9: Performed by Mr. Bennet

Where is this Paris, come to steal away our poor excuses for Helens? If I have missed him, then I have fulfilled my duty as a patriarch, frightening off unserious young men. I know he is only a lieutenant, but even the soundest nets will occasionally catch the smallest fish, my dear. (beat) I have had an intriguing letter. (opening the letter) I hope you can accommodate another young man for dinner tomorrow, madame! (beat) It is a letter from my cousin, Mr. Collins. The very same villain who shall inherit this estate when I am finally dead and at blessed peace. (beat) He writes to propose a visit- he wishes to rebuild the broken bonds between our houses- and I must inform you that he is single. He is a clergyman, if girls you can manage to not frighten HIM away….