MO wrote: “The story of Jane Eyre is widely known and we all have personal pictures of Jane and Rochester; however, I am sure the sincerity of the performances of ‘our’ Jane and Rochester will move you. Perhaps the appeal of the story lies in its statement about the power of love – a statement just as important in 1990 as in 1847.
It has been a great pleasure directing this play and working with such a supportive and enthusiastic team. May I wish you all an enjoyable evening.”
Publicity #1: Jane Eyre
Publication: Shoreham Herald
Publication Data: February 23 issue – page 20
Text Header: “Claire is taking a title role”
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ONE OF the favourite old classics, Jane Eyre, is the choice of the Wick Theatre Company’s forthcoming production.
The play by Helen Jerome is dramatised from the novel by Charlotte Bronte and directed by Margaret Ockenden. The company this year has some newcomers, including Claire Wiggins who takes the leading rôle of Jane Eyre. Mr Rochester is played by the familiar face of Vic Gough and Audrey Laye takes the rôle of Mrs Fairfax. Another newcomer, Angela Man, plays the character Adele Verines and Frances Moulton plays The Maniac.
The production will be performed from Wednesday March 7 to Saturday March 10 at 7.45pm at the Barn Theatre, Southwick Community Centre. Tickets cost £3.00 and £2.50 and are available from the Barn Theatre box office on Brighton 597094.
Review #1: Jane Eyre
Publication: Shoreham Herald
Publication Data: March 16 issue – page 16
Reviewer: Michelle Nevell
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THE WICK Theatre Company stepped back in time to the Victorian era for a performance of their latest production, Jane Eyre. The classic by Charlotte Bronte was brought to life at the Barn Theatre by a confident, professional cast.
There was no sign of first night nerves as the two leading actors took on the demanding rôles of Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester. Newcomer Claire Wiggins portrayed Jane with sensitivity and passion – just how the character should be played.
Experience
Vic Gough was also cast well in the rôle of Mr Rochester – a part which he obviously had the experience to play. Together the two leading lights were an interesting combination and complemented each other. Director Margaret Ockenden not only has a talent for directing but also for casting. Audrey Laye was impressive as the long-suffering Mrs Fairfax, and Daphne Thornton delightful as Hannah. Ralph Dawes and Joan Bearman a Lord and Lady Ingram and Carla Hendry as their daughter Blanche, all worked well to portray the snobbery of the lower social classes which was so apparent in the Victorian period.
The sets, costumes and effects all added to this dramatic, slick production.
The company’s next production is The Killing of Sister George, which will no doubt be as popular and professional as this latest offering of Jane Eyre.
