It’s Austen in Austin as director Robert Tolaro and cast collaborate to portray one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time.

Based on the novel by Jane Austen, Jon Jory’s “Pride and Prejudice” will run at Mary Moody Northen Theatre Feb. 16 – 26, with a first showing Thursday that’s perfect for a belated Valentine’s Day outing.

In the role of Elizabeth Bennett, senior Madison Kay Williams plays a liberally minded young woman who values good sense and social justice. For Williams, it’s a matter of “breathing fresh life into a character that’s been portrayed for 200 years.”

“We had one of the world’s foremost scholars on Jane Austen [visit us], and she was like, ‘Elizabeth Bennett is one of the most beloved characters in all of literary history.’” Williams said. “I was like, ‘Cool, no pressure.’”

As Williams’ enigmatic love interest, Mr. Darcy, senior Robi Attal had a similar experience playing a beloved role that also originates from the 1813 novel.

”Darcy represents that mask that so many men of this time period had to wear to keep poised, stay proper,” Attal said. “I’m like, ‘OK, is he like a Bruce Wayne kind of character? Like where am I going to go with this guy?’”

Also in the cast, associate professor of theatre David Long has stepped into the limelight to portray Elizabeth’s (William’s) father Mr. Bennett, and has been training with Williams and Roby in preparation for opening night Thursday.

”As an actor in the show, I am constantly impressed by the exceptional work and dedication of our student actors in addition to the extremely talented guest artist and designers,” Long said. “Our production… is a fast-paced adventure of love and intrigue that will undoubtedly please even the most devoted Austen fan.”

Tickets for the 2016-2017 season and “Pride and Prejudice” can be purchased online at https://www.stedwards.edu/mary-moody-northen-theatre or the Mary Moody Northen Theatre box office at (512) 448-8484.