Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. Last night, we headed to Northern Stage in Newcastle to see Charlotte Brontë’s literary classic brought to life in a bold production directed by Lily Dyble and adapted by Sally Cookson, Mike Akers and the Original Company.
Disclaimer: we were gifted a pair of free tickets in exchange for an honest review of the show.
There’s something rather fitting about heading to the theatre on a dark autumn evening to watch Jane Eyre. Gothic romance, brooding secrets, a mysterious manor and enough emotional turmoil to make even the most dramatic of us seem positively well-adjusted. What more could you want?
With a cast of just nine, a stripped-back set and plenty of theatrical creativity, this production proved that you don’t need a manor house full of scenery to tell a hauntingly good story. One of the biggest strengths of this production was undoubtedly its staging. Set designer, Anna Yates, kept things simple with a staircase serving as essentially the entire set. There were no elaborate backdrops, furniture or detailed scenery to establish where we were. Instead, speakers placed along the steps were cleverly incorporated into the action, doubling as props and structures when needed. It worked brilliantly!
Through tactful direction, movement and a little theatrical imagination, this single staircase convincingly transported us between different times and locations in Jane’s life, and even created the illusion of motion. It was remarkable how much could be communicated with so little, and a real testament to the team behind this production.
With such a minimal set, the lighting design naturally had a lot of heavy lifting to do, and it was more than up to the task. Shifts in light created space, intimacy and tension which was particularly effective in giving shape to a stage that had little else.
While there was little in the way of props, the use of real candles, smoke machines and pyrotechnics brought an undoubtable authenticity. Against the darker, stripped-back surroundings, the warm glow created some striking visual contrasts, adding life and atmosphere to the stage. I also appreciated that they were timed perfectly with purpose to give certain moments that extra spark.
With just nine performers taking on the many characters of Jane Eyre, there was plenty of doubling up to be done. However, with costuming and convincing characterisations, the company handled it convincingly. There was nothing overbearing or flashy about it but the costuming created incredibly smooth transitions as the cast drifted between personas. Olivia Marcus, Andrea Gatchalian and Leo Wan were stand outs for me as they demonstrated versatile physicality that anchored the production. The ensemble as a whole worked well together, making good use of their limited numbers to populate Jane’s world. That said, there were moments when the acting felt a little too heightened. While Jane Eyre certainly isn’t short on drama, some scenes might have hit better with a little more variation in delivery and emotional intensity.
Regardless, the production was a convincing, atmospheric and powerful piece of theatre with plenty to admire. It’s a production that understands and embraces creativity to leave a big impression.
So, StageSiders, if you’re looking for a night of gothic drama, creative staging and a romance that’s anything but plain Jane, this one’s well worth a visit!
Accessibility
It’s worth noting for anyone sensitive to theatrical effects that the show does use flashing light, smoke machines, sudden noises and pyrotechnics. These are used perfectly, but something to bear in mind before booking.
Value for Money
Discounted tickets are avialble for younger audiences and students, however, the regular theatregoer is looking at a price of £37. Understandably, this might stretch some pockets more than others, however, I will say that this production feels worth the cost. More than enough bang for your Brontë’.
Have Your Say
Have you seen Jane Eyre at Northern Stage? What did you think of the show? Let me know in the comments and lets get a discussion going.
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Jonathan Harper