This year, the FHS Senior Production Society chose Jane Eyre, a much-loved novel with memorable scenes, relatable themes, and scope for a creative set. The story has fabulous female characters, all of whom represent a path in life that Jane could have chosen: the artificial Blanche; Helen with her stoicism and the psychologically disturbed Bertha. There are also challenging male characters such as Brocklehurst, Mason and, of course, the brooding Rochester, played masterfully by Helena McDonnell. Our first challenge was choosing the adaptation we wanted to work with. We didn’t want to simply use the iconic National Theatre version, fabulous though it is, as we wanted to produce something very original. We settled on the adaptation by Polly Teale which focuses on the psychology of Jane, a young girl trapped by her social and economic situation and haunted by a side of herself which wants to break out of the social norm of Victorian society. This allowed us to have Bertha on stage throughout the play and gave us room to have a large chorus who played Lowood orphans, market sellers and even a horse and carriage. We hope you enjoyed our production of Jane Eyre as much as we have enjoyed working on it and look forward to our next project!
Here is what some of our girls had to say about their experience of putting the play together:
As my last play at Francis Holland, playing the lead in a school production was a truly special experience. To be able to work across year groups, after multiple lockdowns with the uncertainty around upcoming exams, gave us all the sense of community that we have missed. I am so proud of the show we were all able to produce and urge anybody considering next year’s play to take part.
Robin Clark (Jane and Bertha)
‘Jane Eyre has been a wonderful experience for everyone involved and it’s been truly one of a kind for the FHS drama production. As for my part, multi-rolling between Jane and Bertha has given me a sense of Polly Teale’s adaptation that was fully encompassing, allowing me to see how the characters work in contrast and in harmony with each other. Being my last FHS school production, I can genuinely say it has been an honour working with each and every one of you!’
Pippin Allright (Jane and Bertha)
‘Being part of the ensemble is more than simply standing on the side-lines. It’s an experience filled with opportunity. We learnt so much, especially from the older girls, who’s techniques and passion inspired us all. We can’t wait to be taking their place in a few years time!’
By Amira and Orielle (chorus)
‘The visual imagery stays with you. Each actor was thoroughly emotionally connected and grounded in their character. The staging and continual flow of movement was wonderful.’
Karen Mount (audience member)
