Gordon State College Fine and Performing Arts will bring a literary classic to campus this April as part of its spring events.
GSC Theatre is preparing to present Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice April 9–12 in the Fine Arts Theatre. Evening performances are scheduled for April 9–11 at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Saturday matinee on April 12 at 2 p.m.
The production will align with Gordon State’s Alumni Weekend on April 10–12, giving Gordon alumni and visitors a chance to enjoy the show.
Hamill’s adaptation reimagines Jane Austen’s well-known story with a faster pace and an energetic performance.
Director of Theatre Lisa Cesnik Ferguson said the format allows for both creativity and accessibility.
“My commitment to making classical works accessible to modern audiences is a perfect match for this adaptation and our students,” Ferguson said. “Only in such a fresh interpretation do I feel free to add juggling and games throughout the production, revealing the sport involved in finding love.”
While Pride and Prejudice serves as the centerpiece of the semester, it is just one part of a broader effort by the Fine and Performing Arts program to expand hands-on experience for students.
Earlier this semester, students participated in a workshop led by actor Adetinpo Thomas, known for her work in Marvel productions. Later guests include Dr. Lynn Sally, author of Neo-Burlesque, and Lucy Archer Flournoy, a returning guest artist who teaches in Germany and will lead movement and dance sessions connected to the spring production.
Students are also continuing to gain experience through collaboration across campus. For the fifth year, the On-Camera Acting course is working alongside psychology Professor Tonya Corbett and her students to develop standardized patient skills. Theatre students are also partnering with the GSC Film Guild on on-camera performance projects.
Tickets for Pride and Prejudice are available in advance at https://bit.ly/GSCTheatre26 or through the GSC Theatre webpage at gordonstate.edu.
Those attending the April 12 matinee can also stop by the Community Brunch, which will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Highlander Dining Hall inside the Student Success Center. The cost is $11.05 per person.
Since the production will be overlapping with Alumni Weekend, visitors will have a chance to participate in additional activities, including attending athletic events, participating in an all-class luncheon and dinner, and taking part in the Gold Star Heroes Roll Call at the college’s military memorial.
Alumni interested in participating in Alumni Weekend events can register at https://bit.ly/GSCAlumniWeekend26.
The college’s 2026–27 arts season is supported in part by a grant from Upson EMC, along with contributions from GSC Board of Trustees member Dan White and the Constance H. Chinery Fine and Performing Arts Support Fund.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
