Lydia Bennet Works in Finance Review from the Edinburgh Fringe

A modern twist on the youngest daughter in Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice plays at Greenside @ George's Street for the Edinburgh Fringe, with a strong performance and script.

⭐⭐⭐

Ever wondered what would happen if you dropped a classic Jane Austen character into the modern world? It turns out, it's quite a howl! Lydia Bennet Works in Finance, written by Trelawny Kean, reimagines the youngest and brattiest of the Bennet sisters as she embarks on a bold new journey of “employment” and independence.

Kean’s script is playful and funny. With plenty of clever nods to Austen’s novels woven throughout, the show manages to balance humour with character development, giving Lydia a compelling arc. While the pacing dips slightly towards the end, a smart final scene brings everything together nicely.

Kean’s performance is strong. Lydia is somehow annoying, yet surprisingly endearing. Her collaboration with director Stacey Carmichael clearly pays off, with a great use of props and characterisations.

One note for the venue: Greenside @ George Street has a flat seating arrangement, which means that some of the floor-level scenes may be difficult to see unless you're in the front row.

Overall, this is a fun take on a classic character. Although it might need some more development, Lydia Bennet Works in Finance is showing great potential.

Lydia Bennet Works in Finance runs at Greenside @ George's Street until the 23rd of August at the Edinburgh Fringe. Tickets are available here.

Venue: Greenside @ George's Street

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Date of Review: 4th of August, 2025

Disclaimer: I was invited to see this show in exchange for an honest review. My review was not influenced by this invite.