Jane Eyre

An invitation to see Jane Eyre, presented by Hobart Repertory Theatre Society at the Playhouse Theatre, Hobart, came with the suggestion to “read (or re-read) the novel before you see this stunning stage adaptation”.

Jane Eyre is believed to be the second most-read book in the English language (after the Bible). How can Jane Eyre be adapted as a play? The answer: beautifully, due to good writing. Director Ingrid Ganley worked to the Polly Teale script with intelligence and sympathy. Physicality is an aspect of the playwright’s work, and that’s what we had in this production, as well as the heroine we all love to love.

Olivia Durst played Jane Eyre as a strong, brave but vulnerable young woman who could have been a victim, but was as self-determining as anyone could be in her circumstances. Durst was a believable Jane, as was her alter-ego Bessie, played by Samantha Lush. I loved how the Bessie character was conscience and confidante to sad, lonely, longing Jane.

Add to the mix the psycho drama of mad wife Bertha (Ellen Roe), in the attic, and the passion and inconsistency of Mr Rochester (Jeff Keogh): unrequited lust ebbed and flowed throughout. Jeff Keogh earned far more sympathy for the conflicted Mr Rochester than I ever felt for the character - he was almost too nice. Ellen Roe was outstanding in her pivotal role.

Beautifully designed and constructed costumes by William Dowd, Jenny Jacobs, Nicole Ottrey and Rosny College Costume Class were a highlight. William Dowd’s wonderfully designed two-level set showed, throughout the play, the threatening presence and gradual deterioration of the mad Mrs Rochester. Atmospheric lighting, sound and smoke effects added to the sombre mood.

With several actors playing multiple roles, all performers displayed their range and adaptability, especially Steven Jones, playing Mr Brocklehurst, Mr Ingram and St John Rivers. Adele (Tess Hatfield) and Mrs Fairfax (Kathy Spencer) were important characters consistently played. A clever, warm empathetic, satisfying production, worth seeing - and an excuse to re-read Jane Eyre.

Merlene Abbott 

Photographer: Robert Linicare