Despite the Coronavirus shutting down theatres worldwide, there are still opportunities to access your favourite shows.
A key company involved in this is the National Theatre. Each week, they livestream a show of their choice, free for audiences. This week’s choice is Sally Cookson’s adaptation of Charlotte Bronte’s most well- known novel, Jane Eyre.
Orphaned as a baby, Jane grew up in a strict rich household but was unable to meet the expectations set upon her. When she turned 10, she was sent away to a strict Christian school, which her rebellious attitude and strive for more makes her decide to move on, as well as being labelled an alien and troublemaker. She eventually becomes a Governess on the Fairfax Estate, eventually growing feelings towards the owner Edward Rochester.
This show takes place within a minimalist wooden structure, set up on multiple levels designed by Michael Vale. It plays around with perspectives and levels with ladders, and there are small modifications at certain points such as bulbs and window frames from the rig.
A gauze surrounds the set, used a few times when thunderstorms happen making Jane feel isolated in this world. There are also three musicians on stage hidden in plain sight. Music is ultilised in other ways during the performance, with a singer on stage singing Jane’s inner thoughts.
Due to this being a live show, with constantly changing views meaning we don’t see the entire set, they don’t get as much coverage. Unfortunately, although I understand why these sorts of performances are appearing more and increasing new interest in theatre, I am often skeptical of live-streamed theatre. Sometimes, things that work with a live audience don’t always work as well with a televised audience.
Personally, I didn’t feel there were any stand out performances. However, the best was Felix Hayes as Rochester – who could be funny and serious. As well as Craig Edwards, who like most of the cast, plays multiple roles including Rochester’s dog Pilot – he also plays Mr Brocklehurst and Mason.
We don’t see him in a dog costume, instead he acts as one on stage in that magical way only theatre can do. The story also has a clear structure, with the ending repeating the opening.
Ultimately, this performance was at least serviceable during the pandemic whilst theatres are shut. I still think it’s better experiencing theatre live. The backstage work and choreography were the best parts of this performance, as there weren’t any standout performances. Here’s hoping that the next show the National Theatre chooses will be an improvement.
Jane Eyre is available to view on YouTube from 7pm Thursday 9th April to Thursday 16th April.
By Stuart McComb
Feature image: National Theatre