Jane Eyre

by Sally Cookson, Charlotte Brontë (Source Material)

Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. Sally Cookson’s bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms. From her beginnings as a destitute orphan, Jane Eyre’s spirited heroine faces life’s obstacles headon, surviving poverty, injustice and the discovery of bitter betrayal before taking the ultimate decision to follow her heart.

This acclaimed re-imagining of Brontë’s masterpiece was first staged by Bristol Old Vic in 2014 and remounted as a coproduction with the National Theatre in 2015.

Genres: Plays, Theatre

118 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 17, 2015

Reviews

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting to read - but certainly misses something not seeing it live. I saw it on tour at the Lowry and the production was excellent, felt very fresh and contemporary.

[Matthew Gurteen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt as if the source material was somewhat lost in this adaptation. I certainly wouldn't choose to reread/watch it over Charlotte Bronte's novel. Although it does many interesting things, I felt like Sally Cookson was trying to tackle too many themes simultaneously. Novels and plays are two different forms, after all. More cuts could - and should - have been made. Ultimately, however, I am glad I read/watched this. I would still recommend it to any 'Jane Eyre' fan for a fresh take on the classic novel.

[Kylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I genuinely liked most of this play. It hit all the most relevant and important parts in a meaningful way, and succeeded where Charlotte failed (to make me like Rochester). I did, however, remove a whole star for that outrageously cheesy bookend first and last scene— it was so unnecessary and poorly done.

Five stars to Mike Beer and Dominic Bilkey for Berthas incredible soundtrack. I need to hear it to believe it worked.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a stunning adaptation! Every piece fits together perfectly.

[Dion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotive, engaging - and the play is visually stimulating. Superior art.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a stunning and lovely stage adaptation of the novel, devised by the original company throughout the rehearsal process. Definitely worth seeing and reading.

[Steve Mayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

As much fun to read as it was to watch.

[Madeleine Rose Healey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to play this character!

[Colin Mak · Rating 3 out of 5]

Watched the National Theatre Live performance - the production is beautifully made, especially its lighting, physicality, and overall imagery created, but the narrative and length made it slightly weaker. The physicality was masterfully done, with the travelling scenes, the manipulation of the windows, and the characterisation of the dog, being the highlights of the production. There was strong symbolism throughout - from the abrupt lighting changes, Jane Eyre continually struggling up the ladders of the set, costume changes, and the clever portrayal of death through the floor hatch. Another key strong point was the use of manipulation of music and sound - it helped create the right atmosphere and exposed the characters' thinking. It was just a little too slow and the narrative could have been stronger (12/04/2020).

[Almond · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Brontes are not my favorites, but I do have a soft spot for Jane Eyre.

[Esther Kerkovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

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