A new Jane Austen–inspired stage production has opened at Chichester Festival Theatre as part of celebrations marking 250 years since the birth of one of Britain’s most celebrated authors.
“Being Mr Wickham” puts the spotlight on one of Austen’s most infamous characters, offering audiences a fresh perspective on George Wickham, the charming yet controversial figure from Pride and Prejudice. The production stars Adrian Lukis, who famously played Wickham in the 1995 BBC television adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, a role that helped cement the series as a classic of British television drama.
More than thirty years on, Lukis returns to the character to explore what lies beneath Wickham’s polished exterior. The play is written as a confessional monologue, allowing Wickham to tell his side of the story, challenge the audience’s assumptions and reflect on the events that defined him. Blending humour, charm and moments of self-awareness, the production invites theatre-goers to reconsider one of Austen’s most divisive creations.
The show forms part of a wider programme of events and performances marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, celebrating her enduring influence on literature, theatre and popular culture. Austen’s novels continue to resonate with audiences around the world, inspiring countless adaptations, reinterpretations and debates about her characters and themes.
“Being Mr Wickham” is expected to attract both long-time Austen fans and newcomers, offering a witty and engaging take on a familiar story.
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK - Worthing Pride returns for 2026, celebrating diversity, equality and inclusivity with a full weekend of family-friendly events at Steyne Gardens on the seafront on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th of July.
There’ll be live entertainment, local food and stalls — and V2 Radio listeners can snap up tickets for just £12, half the usual price. Find out more: Worthing Pride 2026 - V2 Vouchers
Suspected cannabis plants found at address in Polegate
Maternity and neonatal care in Sussex
Man charged following firearms warrant in Crawley
Tribute paid following death of woman in Southampton
Shoreham e-bike fire sparks lithium-ion battery warning
Crawley councillor calls for courtesy
West Sussex council leaders reaffirm strong partnership as government considers reorganisation plans
Families move back to Worthing to new council accommodation
Did you see the Northern Lights over Southern England?
Major rescue after hang glider crashes into cliff at Beachy Head
On Air