Classic Novel Comes To Life: Liberty University Department of Theatre Arts Presents “Jane Eyre”

Audiences will be immersed in a world of mystery and passion through the Liberty University Department of Theatre Arts’ latest musical, “Jane Eyre,” in the Tower Theater.   

Based off the novel by Charlotte Brontё, the musical focuses on the struggles of orphaned and unloved Jane Eyre, whose wanderlust leads her to take a position as a governess at the secretive Thornfield Hall. Here, she meets the disagreeable Mr. Edward Rochester, his outgoing ward Adele and the estate’s odd staff: Mrs. Alice Fairfax, Robert and Grace Pool.

Eyre and Rochester grapple with their feelings for each other, facing jealousy and society’s expectations. The secrets that enshroud the estate threaten grave dangers hidden behind locked doors. When the mysteries unfold at last, Eyre is forced to face the truth, and her faith and ability to forgive are tested. In desperation, she makes her most difficult decision yet.

The cruelty of Mrs. Reed contrasts with gentle-natured St. John, allowing the audience to experience the lonely spitefulness that comes from unforgiveness in juxtaposition to the freedom found in forgiveness.

“Ultimately, ‘Jane Eyre’ is a tale of redemption,” Director Linda Cooper, associate professor and chair of Theatre Arts, said. “I’m hoping …  (the audience) will understand what forgiveness is and that God tempers judgment with mercy, and so there’s hope for everyone.”

The expanded stage showcased numerous locations, including the peaceful forested garden of Thornfield Hall and the heartless atmosphere of Lowood School. These scenes are brought to life by the musical’s creative team, production staff and orchestra, which is conducted by adjunct music professor Kathryn Wert.

“Jane Eyre is a hero of mine, full of spirit and fortitude,” Cooper said. “She faces this world with only God as her guide and listens to his still, small voice in all situations. Even when her flesh is weak, it is her moral compass that gives her strength to carry on in the face of adversity.”

Eyre’s journey, despite its difficulties, is not entirely alone. As the young woman faces her greatest struggles, she finds refuge in Helen Burns and St. John Rivers, whose roles in the main character’s life lead her to follow God’s plan.

“Helen Burns is my favorite character because of how her character shaped the rest of Jane’s journey from beginning to end,” Jesse Wilkerson, who plays the role of Mr. Rochester, said. “If it wasn’t for Helen, I don’t think Jane would ever have been able to forgive Mrs. Reed or Rochester, and her story would have been completely different.”

The cast of “Jane Eyre” faced several difficulties, including an unforeseen last minute cast change requiring Wilkerson to switch to the role of Rochester in the final week of rehearsals. Despite this, Wilkerson has remained optimistic in the success of the musical.

“It has been a very busy week diving deep into the life and character of Edward Rochester, but I can confidently say this has been the greatest experience I’ve had with learning a (role) and the most challenging,” Wilkerson said. “God has blessed me a lot in this process.”

Wilkerson is not the only cast member who is excited to be working on this musical. His co-star, senior Presley Calonge, plays the leading character, Jane Eyre. Calonge said she hopes the audience will be able to appreciate the musical’s story of hope and redemption.  

“This entire show is to recognize that hope in life,” Calonge said. “In the same way you can look at the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, and I mean … what a hopeless time. … Later he rose from the dead, and now we have eternal life with him. And I think that is so beautiful and knowing that even in the times where life seems the most hopeless, there’s always an ounce of hope.”

Calonge described Eyre as “a force of nature” and someone who “sticks up for herself and others.”

Calonge said Eyre’s outfit stands out from the others; her sage green dress acts in contrast to the darkened hues of maroon, purple and navy that adorn the rest of the cast.

“She is a representation of hope and light within all these peoples’ lives that she interacts with,” Calonge said.

As “Jane Eyre” embarks on a journey for the eternal benefit of each of its characters, a few central themes carry throughout.

“(The musical is) a haunting story of love, hope and redemption,” Calonge said.

“Jane Eyre” will run from Nov. 8-23. For more information on show times and ticket purchases, visit www.liberty.edu/arts/theatre/tickets.

McKinnon is an arts & culture reporter for the Liberty Champion.