Jane Eyre, Northern Ballet - Norwich Theatre (20.05.2025)

The tortured life of Jane Eyre is laid bare by Northern Ballet, as they bring the classic gothic romance tale to the stage in an enchantingly haunting performance devised by Cathy Marston.

Saeka Shirai, in the title role, was incredible; effortlessly blending a robust characterisation as she battles through adversity, with a more languid femininity as she seemingly melts into and entwines with Rochester’s body.

As Jane's love interest, Mr Rochester, Harris Beattie was similarly superb. He showed a wonderful range, from light and playful when indulging in comical horseplay with his staff, to more sensitive and brooding as his romance with Jane follows a difficult path.

Beyond the two romantic leads, there's a huge amount to enjoy about the production, with a number of memorable scenes. Gemma Coutts' first menacing cameo as the vengeful Bertha which leads to Rochester’s bedroom being engulfed in flames is full of drama. Her later appearance as she interrupts the wedding is similarly gripping, and there's some fantastic choreography at the beginning of the second half when the male ensemble lead the action at the ball hosted by Rochester.

The orchestra, following Philip Feeney’s adapted score, more than proved its worth, offering a performance which wonderfully complemented the happenings on stage - it was fantastic to hear.

If, like myself, the novel isn't one you've read, you may well be reliant on a synopsis to guide you through the narrative. While at times the story was very clear, almost to the point of being literal, at other points I was left reaching for my programme notes as the doubling-up of actors meant it sometimes wasn't the easiest to follow.

The spell-binding yet desperate tale of Jane Eyre continues at Norwich Theatre Royal until 24 May, before continuing its national tour.