IT is a truth, universally acknowledged, that Matthew Kelly will be appearing in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

The play concerning Regency mores and manners, will entertain local audiences from Tuesday November 8 to Saturday November 12.

A spokesman said: "Pride and Prejudice marks the return of Regent’s Park Theatre to The Rep following their smash hit production of Lord of the Flies.

The cast will feature Felicity Montagu as Mrs. Bennet, Matthew Kelly as Mr. Bennet, Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet, Benjamin Dilloway as Mr. Darcy and Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh."

The spokesman added: "One of the most universally loved and quintessentially English novels of all time, Pride and Prejudice tells the story of the Bennet family and their five unmarried daughters.

"A family of humble means, Mr and Mrs. Bennet see the perfect opportunity to improve their social standing when the wealthy Mr Bingley and his eligible friend Mr. Darcy move to the neighbourhood."

First published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice has remained one of the most popular novels in English literature, selling over 20 million copies and spawning numerous adaptations, most notably the 1940 film starring Laurence Olivier and the 1995 BBC adaptation starring Colin Firth.

The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Pride and Prejudice was first staged in 2013 to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the novel’s publication.

Pride and Prejudice is directed by Deborah Bruce and has been adapted for the stage by Simon Reade.

Tickets and further details on, 0121 236 4455 and birmingham-rep.co.uk