Review: Stellar ‘Jane Eyre’ at A Noise Within
- Anita W. Harris
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Whether or not you are a fan of Charlotte Brontë’s 1847 gothic novel Jane Eyre, you will be smitten by Elizabeth Williamson’s stage adaptation as produced by A Noise Within (ANW) — a stellar rendition in every aspect.
Set during the time of the novel, the story is narrated by Jane (Jeanne Syquia) addressing the “Reader” directly. It works as well on stage as in the book, allowing Jane to speak to the audience while also interacting with the other characters, maintaining her point of view as she navigates a brave new world.
It helps that Syquia embodies her role as Jane to a T, speaking clearly and emphatically but with emotion — a masterful performance. The role is physically demanding, too, as directed by ANW artistic co-director Geoff Elliott, including the lithe Jane having to change dress periodically on stage, made easy by costume designer Angela Balogh Calin.
Strong-willed despite a tenuous upbringing, yet warm and with a large heart, Jane arrives at Thornfield Hall ready to serve as governess to the young ward of Mr. Rochester (Frederick Stuart), the frequently absent lord of the manor.
Teaching young Adele (Stella Bullock) is a piece of cake for Jane — herself a star pupil of the school of hard knocks — but navigating the layered mysteries of the manor soon begins testing her nerve and resolve, eventually reaching a breaking point amid cryptic noises, unexplained fires, puzzling visitors and strange romantic manipulations.
The story thus gets emo-gothic with unexpected turns, which is a great part of its pleasure, and nothing the talented ensemble can’t handle, many of whom are ANW regulars. Stuart as Rochester makes an excellent complement to Jane — older but still spry and witty, and vulnerable beneath his weathered gruffness.
Similarly, Deborah Strang as housekeeper Mrs. Fairfax, Trisha Miller as the alcoholic Grace Poole and others, Julia Manis as multiple pivotal characters and Riley Shanahan as Mr. Mason but especially St. John Rivers — all stand out for their stellar deliveries. Even supporting roles — Bullock as the girlish Adele and especially as a frightened yet fierce young Jane, and Bert Emmett as a gardener and others — seamlessly weave into the overall fabric of the production.
Comic timing is also on beat, as are both subtle and overt emotional deliveries, thanks to director Elliott’s experienced hand. And creative scenic design by Frederica Nascimento, featuring movable walls with doors, and wheels on furniture, keeps the story flowing gracefully. Ken Booth’s similarly creative lighting — including tube lights on the floor to suggest a fireplace or moonlight — is icing on the cake of the set.
Attention to every detail of production design — including not just British but specifically Yorkshire accents for Jane and others, facilitated by dialect coach Andrea Odinov — makes ANW’s “Jane Eyre” must-see. You’ll find yourself on your feet at the end, not only in response to the story’s extreme emotional crescendo, but also in appreciation for such an immersive and engaging theatrical experience. Don’t miss its final weekend!
“Jane Eyre” continues through April 20 at A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, with performances Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, call (626) 356-3100 or visit anoisewithin.org. Run time is 2 hour and 20 minutes, including intermission.