The Monmouth County Library will stage a series of events ranging from movies to book discussions honoring the 200th anniversary of the death of Jane Austen, the renowned British novelist whose books interpreted and critiqued the landed gentry in England during the late 18th century.
Events will be held at library headquarters in Manalapan and at library branches in Monmouth County, according to a press release.
The highlight of the month-long celebration will be Raconteur Radio’s presentation of “Pride and Prejudice,” a staged radio play to be performed at library headquarters on Nov. 12.
The radio play, complete with theatrical lighting, vintage commercials, Golden Age radio equipment and sound effects, together with costumed actors, features Laurence Mintz and Danielle Illario, and Alex Dawson in the leading roles.
Beginning at 3 p.m., the program at headquarters also allows time and planning for audience participation, according to the press release.
Austen’s works explore the dependence of women on marriage in their pursuit of favorable social standing and economic security.
The radio play, known as an “ear movie,” is a story told through dialogue, sound effects and music. Raconteur Radio stages theatrical presentations of vintage radio plays, classic works of literature/film, and pop culture parodies for live audiences at traditional and improvised venues. For more information, visit www.RaconteurRadio.com
In addition to the Nov. 12 presentation, the Hazlet Library is offering a different Jane Austen film every Wednesday in November beginning at 2 p.m.
Special Jane Austen programs are also being offered at the Colts Neck, Wall Township, Allentown and Marlboro libraries during the month.
For further information on each of the programs, visit www.monmouthcountylib.org. There are no fees for the programs and the public is welcome to attend. No reservations are required for the Jane Austen 200th Anniversary series.