IN celebration of the 200th anniversary of the publication of Jane Austen's novel, a new adaptation of Pride And Prejudice by Joannah Tincey will visit the York Theatre Royal Studio tomorrow and Saturday.

Directed by Abigail Anderson, Two Bit Classics' inventive touring production sees two actors – Joannah Tincey and Nick Underwood – juggle the gamut of Austen’s well-loved characters; journey from the Meryton Assembly to the grounds of Pemberley; and take Darcy and Lizzy from instant dislike to something very different, all in only two hours.

Far from creating a spoof, however, the writer and director promise a version of P&P's story that is "closer to Austen’s original intentions than many previous television and stage versions, using only Austen's original words".

As Joannah outlines: "Austen’s narration reads as this wonderful blend of perspectives. She very rarely writes in ‘wide-shot’ but is switching ‘close-ups’ all the time; events are filtered through different characters’ sense of the truth and it’s in the dance of these perspectives that so much of her wonderful wit resides. I wanted to create an adaptation where the characters talk to the audience in the same way that Austen talks to her reader."

Abigail adds: "By addressing the audience directly and allowing the characters to speak for themselves, we're bringing Jane Austen’s unique and witty writing style to life in a truly theatrical context."

The show is co-produced by the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, where the tour will conclude later this month. Both 7.45pm performances in York are close to selling out, so prompt booking is advised on 01904 623568 or at yorktheatreroyal.co.uk