Join inimitable comedian and author Rachel Parris for an exclusive event, discussing some of the overlooked characters in Jane Austen’s novels – starting with Charlotte Lucas who has finally become the heroine of her own story in Rachel’s brilliant new book Introducing Mrs Collins.

Rachel will lead a lively discussion about Charlotte’s story and other favourite secondary characters who deserve to have their stories told! She’ll also talk about how she came to write Introducing Mrs Collins and her love for Jane Austen’s works, which led to her co-creating the viral comedy improv show Austentatious – and invite audience questions and discussion!

Included in the event ticket is a signed copy of Introducing Mrs Collins. A tale of love, loss and second chances, this brilliant new novel is for anyone who wondered if there was more to the sensible character we meet in Pride and Prejudice. It is the story of a woman who had written herself out of her own life, only to learn it is never too late to find your own happy ending.

Rachel Parris is a BAFTA-nominated comedian, best known for her viral segments on The Mash Report which have had over 100 million views. She has appeared on Live At Apollo, Mock the Week, Q.I. and Would I Lie To You, and can regularly be heard on BBC Radio 4 shows The Now Show, The News Quiz and I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. As a touring comic she performs musical comedy and standup through the UK and she guests with the Comedy Store Players.

Rachel is a founder-member of Austentatious, the hit improvised Jane Austen comedy show, and she also created “Austensibly Feminist” for Radio 4.

Details:
Date: Saturday 24 January 2026
Times: 11am – 12pm
Location: This event is at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton. Find us
Tickets: £35
This event is also available as part our Full Day Pass – if you want to attend all the events on this day, this is the best option!

🎁 Ticket price includes a signed hardback copy of ‘Introducing Mrs Collins’ by Rachel Parris

📖 This event is part of our Pride and Prejudice Festival, 24-28 January 2026.