Lisburn actress helps to give an 80s vibe to Jane Austen classic in new musical

Laura, who is no stranger to the stage, is joining the cast of Pride and Prejudice… and 80’s Hits!

This is a bold, joyful new musical mash-up that marries Jane Austen’s iconic love story with the new romance of the 1980s.

Classic literature meets classic pop as Elizabeth Bennet, Mr Darcy and a cast of incredible characters navigate the world of love, longing, class, pride and prejudice - all powered by the 80s biggest and most beloved hits.

Laura found out about auditions for the show on social media and was thrilled to be selected to join the cast.

"What intrigued me most was that they were putting an 80s twist on it with classic hits,” she explained.

"The audition itself was so fun to experience. After that I got a call back and got to do a workshop with other people who also auditioned.

"I was actually in work when I got the email to say I had gotten a part so I rang my mum straight away to tell her the news and we were both over the moon with joy.”

Laura has always had a passion for musical theatre and gained plenty of experience from a young age.

"I’m definitely no stranger to musicals,” she admitted.

"I saw my first musical at the age of eight which was ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and I remember right then I wanted to be on the stage.

"I also had the amazing opportunity of going to Hunterhouse College, where I fell in love with the drama and performing arts aspect of the school. I can say that they were a massive inspiration to my love for theatre and musicals.”

Laura is stepping into the shoes of Caroline Bingley in the show and has been thoroughly enjoying the rehearsals.

"Caroline is the antagonist of the show,” Laura explained. “She is driven by her desire to pursue Mr Darcy, but not for the reason of love.

“Even though Caroline sounds like a nasty person she is actually really fun to play.

"I get to sing ‘Love to Hate You’ by Erasure which is a very fitting song for Caroline.

"I’ve never stepped into a role like this before so getting to play the antagonist part is very exciting.

"The rehearsal process so far has been really fun. Getting to meet all the cast members has been a joy and everyone is so lovely.

"Our director Kerry Rooney is a pleasure to work with as well.

"The rehearsals are a very open and welcoming space for me and I am enjoying every part of it so far.”

Laura is looking forward to getting onto the stage of the Waterfront Hall for the show’s run from May 7-9.

"I am super excited for the show opening and for people to come and watch this amazing masterpiece that we have put together,” she added.

“It is definitely a show that you would not want to miss as it is a classic story with so many twists in it.”

Tickets are on sale now from the Waterfront Hall Box Office.