The Year 13 Drama Class recently delivered a captivating production of Jane Eyre, directed by Christina Cassells. Grace Billinghurst shone as young Jane, while Leah Swindells embodied the older Jane, making this performance a highlight of the year.

In just two hours, the audience journeyed through Jane's trials—from her mistreatment at Gateshead Hall to her friendships at Lowood School, her passionate love for Edward Rochester at Thornfield, and her eventual reunion with him after a proposal from St. John Rivers. The students tackled the challenge of condensing this four-hour classic with enthusiasm, relying on their impressive acting skills and physical theatre techniques against a minimalist set.

The cast described this as their most enjoyable drama experience. Memorable moments they included Amber Keam's emotive exit as Helen and Caitie McAra’s lively portrayal of Pilot, which brought humor to the stage.

Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cast's dedication and talent. Comments included: “The students have put in significant time and effort... such a fast-paced show with incredible interactions. The simple yet cleverly designed stage was effectively utilized, and the choreography was executed flawlessly. The versaactors' versatility evident as they seamlessly transitioned between various characters, demonstrating their remarkable talent and adaptability.”

The music, featuring an original piece by Zoe Rei with vocals by Ashana Watene, beautifully complemented the storytelling, while well-timed sound effects enriched the emotional depth of each scene.

Overall, the Year 13 production of Jane Eyre was a testament to the creativity and hard work of the students and their director. This experience will be cherished by the cast for years to come. Congratulations to everyone involved, and best of luck to the Year 13s in their future endeavors!