A large ensemble of 23 make up the cast of the upcoming Trinity Western University production of Jane Eyre: The Musical.
The show, which runs March 14 to April 1, features two 91原创 residents: Julianna Towle in the lead roles of Jane Eyre and and Paul Kobilke as Rochester. And they鈥檙e accompanied by a cast of other actors 鈥� including children 鈥� from throughout 91原创 and other parts of the Lower Mainland.
They鈥檙e bringing Charlotte Bronte鈥檚 gothic novel to musical life in all its haunting, mysterious, and romantic beauty, said director and assistant TWU prof Kate Muchmore Woo.
鈥淭his is not your typical musical,鈥� the director said, explaining it is a 鈥渕ust see for anyone who loves gorgeous music an great singing 鈥� as well as historical drama with strong, unconventional heroines, brooding heroes, romance, intrigue, and a touch of comedy.鈥�
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TWU theatre major Kate Nundal is playing Jane鈥檚 guardian, Mrs. Reed.
鈥淭he story is about people who are trapped in some way; by societal expectations, by hatred, by money, or class,鈥� she said.
鈥淲e follow Jane as she struggles to overcome these 鈥榗ages鈥� to find herself and her freedom,鈥� Nundal added.
With music and lyrics by Paul Gordon, plus book and additional lyrics by John Caird, the musical has been hailed for its 鈥渓uxuriant score and haunting and memorable music,鈥� Muchmore Woo said, noting it takes much of its 鈥渃risp, intelligent lyrics鈥� straight from the classic Bronte novel.
Speaking to the storyline, she said the play is full of deep and honest characterizations.
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鈥淏ullied and mistreated for much of her life, a young governess fights for dignity and a better outcome for herself only to fall inexplicably in love with her troubled employer. When the secret he harbours threatens to jeopardize their chance at happiness, will she let passion or her conscience rule her heart?鈥�
鈥淭he chance to direct a musical that is this dark and haunting鈥攂ut also beautiful and full of truth鈥攊s not something that happens often,鈥� she said.
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This production features many of the schools 鈥渕ost exceptional singers and actors,鈥� Muchmore Woo said.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a wonderful opportunity for theatre and music students to work together, and to share the stage with some delightful and talented children.鈥�
This production is directed by Muchmore Woo, with musical direction by Allan Thorpe. The design team is Carolyn Rapanos (set), Megan Gilron (costumes), and Chengyan Boon (lights and projections).
Tickets are $16 to $25 each and available at or 604-533-2188.
