Viewers Can Lose (And Find) Themselves in the Haunting World of Theatre Raleigh's "Jane Eyre"

Jane Eyre is one of those classic novels that most people encounter during their formative years. And, while any time is ripe for reading, the story’s title heroine does particularly resonate with young people. After all, she is young herself, even younger at the story’s start, and finds herself facing, as we all do, a long and difficult road. Jane’s coming-of-age tale is set in 18th and 19th century England, yet its themes and complex, troubled characters are still relevant and relatable today.

With such unforgettable characters and an eerie-but-beautiful Gothic setting, it’s no surprise that Jane Eyre has seen many iterations, including a musical adaptation featuring haunting music and lyrics by Paul Gordon and a book and additional lyrics by John Caird. It is this musical version—itself a revised and revamped update of a previous version—that is currently gracing the stage at Theatre Raleigh.

Directed by Megan McGinnis and nestled inside the cozy walls of the De Ann S. Jones Theatre, this production features a talented cast, smooth staging, and ample amounts of atmosphere. Playing out against Elizabeth Newton’s castle-inspired set and full of stark colors and candlelight, this Jane Eyre casts a dreamy spell that keeps viewers enthralled. Soft music lulls them into Jane’s world, and the fluid, precise movement of the cast keeps them entranced. The actors almost seem to float as they move in and around the stage (and in and out of multiple roles) with practiced precision.

The show’s youngest cast member, a darling and immensely talented Ada Manie, is particularly captivating as both young Jane Eyre and, later, Adele, Jane’s governess charge. With wide eyes and a clear, powerful voice, she creates characters that are appropriately wise beyond their years. She also manages to nail not one, but two accents (English and French) and holds her own against a seasoned adult cast.

That cast includes Julie Benko in the title role and Matt Bogart as Rochester, Jane’s troubled boss-turned-romantic interest. Benko’s Jane is the perfect combination of soft-but-strong, and she shares a steamy, smoldering chemistry with Bogart’s surly Rochester. Together, they look as if they’ve stepped right off the pages of Jane Eyre and onto the stage, and they bring a riveting intensity to the production,

As their story unfolds, the rest of the cast moves around them, stepping into and out of various roles. Stacia Fernandez is both the mean Mrs. Reed, Jane’s aunt, and the hilarious, too-proper housekeeper, Mrs. Fairfax, while Soraiah Williams, Ella Frederickson, Rob Hancock, and several others juggle multiple characters as well. Though a small, revolving cast could easily lead to confusion, McGinnis’ directorial clarity keeps every storyline crystal clear and renders the tiny cast an intimate asset. Additionally, actors are clad in muted gray tones with pops of color reserved mostly for main characters, a nice touch that aids in comprehension while adding an ethereal visual appeal. Clarity is also present in terms of the music. In the small space, not a word is lost, and the live orchestrations provide atmosphere, tension, and beauty. 

Lilting, mysterious, and utterly engaging, Theatre Raleigh’s Jane Eyre effectively transports viewers to a different time and place. With themes of forgiveness, faith, and the unending nature of true love, it touches on many of the novel’s topics while adding a unique appeal all its own. Whether it’s an escape, a release, or both, everyone can find what they need in this powerful production.

Jane Eyre runs through June 9th, and tickets are available here.