(Wright County, IA – May 2024) The Iowa River Players have had another successful production with their performance of "Pride and Prejudice" by Kate Hamill, based on the iconic tale by Jane Austen. As a humble observer, I had the opportunity to attend their last performance on Sunday, May 5th at 2:30 pm at the Iowa River Players Theater in Rowan.
The talented cast brought the beloved characters to life on stage, gaining laughter and applause from the audience. The costumes and set transported us back in time, creating a historical experience for all in attendance. The Iowa River Players continue to impress with their dedication to bringing quality entertainment to their community.
The four Bennet daughters are known for their contrasting personalities; Jane (Ruby Coldiron) the eldest and most poised, always carried herself gracefully. Elizabeth (Griffioen), the second eldest, possessed wit and charm. Mary (Deanna Holmes), the ‘tall’ sister, was forthcoming with her knowledge and Lydia (Ash Rickie), the youngest, was full of energy.
The play follows the turbulent relationship of the high-spirited Elizabeth Bennet and a wealthy young gentleman named Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy as they both struggle to navigate the expectations of their families and society. Their conflicting emotions are tested when they are repeatedly placed in each other's company.
From their first encounter, Jane and Darcy’s relationship is stained with pride and prejudice. Through the progression of the play, I was intrigued as I watched the main characters, played by Emily Griffioen and Daniel Krabbe, confront their faults and biases. I saw the characters ultimately learn how to see past their differences to find true happiness.
Amidst the emotions and unspoken words between Lizzy Bennet and Mr. Darcy, the rest of the Bennet family was causing quite a commotion. Mrs. Bennet’s (Deb Coldiron) aspirations to have her daughters marry well are borderline comical, and the uninterested air from Mr. Bennet (Lance Arnold) gains both sympathy and mirth from the audience.
Luanne Krabbe, a native of Belmond, who studied theater at the University of Iowa directed the play. She made a fabulous appearance as the overbearing and snobbish Lady Catherine de Bourgh alongside Megan Peterson, who played both Miss de Brough and Miss Bingley.
Joshua Holmes played another one of Jane’s love interests, Mr. Bingley. Aiden Weaver appeared as Wickham and Sean Luick-Brister portrayed Mr. Collins. Many members of the cast have made their acting debut during this production. An amazing and applaudable feat, to be sure.
This year, the Iowa River Players celebrate their 25th Anniversary of bringing theater to Wright County. The 200-seat theater is hosted in the vintage gymnasium in the small town of Rowan. IRP presents three to four plays a season. What makes this company truly special is that all the actors and crew members are local volunteers. From young aspiring actors to experienced retirees with a love for the stage, everyone comes together to bring these productions to life.
Thanks to the sponsorship from the Barkema Trust, the Theater Intern Program has made it possible for interns like co-director and stage manager Iran “Ronnie” Carlos Martinez, a recent graduate from Drake University, to “push her creativity” and to participate in a “local non-profit organization” in a small rural community.
On behalf of the community, I extend my appreciation to the Iowa River Players for their production of "Pride and Prejudice”. Congratulations on reaching this impressive milestone of 25 years of providing exceptional entertainment to our community. I look forward to seeing what the next 25 years will bring.
