NODA REVIEW

HATTON OPERATIC SOCIETY JANE EYRE - FEBRUARY 2008

Whilst I find all musicals enjoyable it was a real treat to come and review something new, and I was looking forward to seeing how such a dramatic story had been adapted. With a considerable passage of time covered in the narration by Jane Eyre at the start, and numerous technical difficulties to overcome, not least of which was the fire, it certainly presented a challenge to the director and also to the cast. From their point of view they had to learn totally unknown part singing musical numbers, whereas in the better known shows there are usually at least a couple of less demanding songs to sing.

The ensemble singing, as I mention regularly in my reports, was extremely good and very well rehearsed and the chorus became a large part of the piece, setting the stage without bustle. When on stage in their singing capacity, wearing the hooded cloaks, Clive used them artistically to set the scene. His direction was superb and I don't think I saw anything that could have been done differently to better effect. I wondered how on earth he would stage the fire but when it came it was extremely realistic, especially with the added effect of the falling joists. Gobos of windows projected onto the stark stage implied the brightness of the world outside as a contrast to the darkness and misery inside the orphanage. The graveyard scene was imaginative and made good use of the cloaked chorus. Paul Nash led the well-balanced orchestra strongly as he introduced the audience to the delightful score, which ranged through a whole gamut of emotions. They played with great sensitivity when required and also with passion.  The girl's singing in the orphanage at the beginning was especially good

It would be hard to better Amanda Lapping in the role of Jane Eyre; her acting was impressive. She was utterly believable as a young woman who despite her enforced years in an orphanage never lost her spirit, and eventually left there as a gentle yet strong individual with firm moral/religious standards. Her diction was excellent and her singing voice was very good. Both she and Aileen Smith have added strong vocal ability to their acting skills in the five years during which I have been reviewing your productions.

Playing the young Jane Eyre, Thyrza Abrahams gave a good performance displaying rebelliousness toward the harshness of Lowood Hall, and a deep affection for the only girl who befriended her, Helen.  Her perseverance to see Helen and the stark room where she died made the loneliness of the two girls quite palpable.  Annelly James acted well as Helen and the song 'Forgiveness', was sung beautifully by all three girls.

Mr. Brocklehurst was exactly the right role for Mike Davenport who acted the Victorian figure of authority perfectly and sang powerfully.  Maggie Dean was an equally frightening Mrs Reed who carried her hatred of Jane right through to her last moments on her death bed.  As the school teacher, yet another person who treated Jane with contempt, Connie Law was convincing, and Miles Ascough taking two roles did well, but was more suited to John than Lord Ingram because of his youthful appearance. The added moustache didn't really age him.  John Connor gave a good characterisation as the butler Robert and the humour in the role was nicely pointed.

I know how difficult it is to cast a part perfectly and the audience has great expectations of Mr. Rochester. As far as acting and vocal ability is concerned Myles Harfield lived up to them, but he is a large man and unfortunately Crescendo Costumes did not supply suitable costumes for him. They did not fit properly or look good enough for his station in life. His wig was also very unflattering.

Aileen Smith gave her usual sound and captivating performance as Blanche Ingram and her daughter Lucy was full of vitality as the precocious Adele. She had a good French accent and looked as though she enjoyed every moment on stage.

Jenny Poore had a sound North country accent and played Grace Poole securely.  Mrs. Fairfax, played by Jane Stovell, who was unfortunately wearing nail varnish, (it's amazing what can be seen from the audience and the cast ought to be aware of it) provided some amusing moments acting as the deaf woman and her singing was good.  In act two the fortune telling scene provided a lighter moment and the proposal scene was exceptionally good.  Andrew Rickson spoke loudly and clearly but could have used his voice a little more sonorously to help more with the characterisation of The Vicar.  As the mad Bertha, Anne Smith played it just right, not too over the top, but I didn't think her dress was suitable.  It is not possible to write about every named role except to say that they, and everyone else involved in staging Jane Eyre, all played their part in making this an exceptionally good production.

Costumes were suitable, apart from the previously mentioned ones, and props were too. The minimalist set and the lighting plot created the ambience of the period and allowed different areas of the stage to be used concurrently. Jane's bedroom was well furnished.

The sound effects were realistic but the mikes were rather erratic - sometimes too loud and sometimes not on at all. The company deserved a more consistent service from Steve Lonsdale.

Once again you have put together a good programme with plenty of background information and a striking cover, so I'm sure you will be entering it the poster and programme competition this year.

Congratulations on providing an unusual and fine musical, which I thoroughly enjoyed.  Thank you for inviting me to see Jane Eyre and for your hospitality on the evening.

E. Gloria Smith
NODA Representative - Region 12