Directed by Nettie Sheridan
Audition Date: Sunday 22nd February 2026, 6.30pm - 10pm
Recalls: Tuesday 24th February 2026, 7pm
Production Dates
Brighton Little Theatre dates
9th May, 10th May, 16th May Matinee Performances - 2:30pm
9th May and 12th-16th May 7:30pm
Brighton Open Air Theatre
10th – 13th June 7:30pm + Matinee 13th June at 2pm
Rehearsals
Rehearsals: Movement / Physical rehearsals w/c 16th March
Blocking and all other commence w/c 22nd March – (Likely : Sun/Mon/Weds/Thurs)
Outside Rehearsals for BOAT Preparation: 24th, 25th, 31st, May and 1st & 2nd June.
If you are unable to make the audition date and for more information and audition pieces, please contact Nettie on nettesheridan@googlemail.com
This powerful adaptation of Jane Eyre explores the inner life of Charlotte Bronte’s heroine, transforming the classic novel into a visually and emotionally charged piece of physical theatre. It is Brighton Little Theatre’s 800th production and our 2026 Brighton Fringe production.
Jane’s journey from her harsh childhood at Gateshead and the brutal discipline of Lowood School, through her growing independence as a governess at Thornfield Hall, is shaped by resilience, imagination, and an intense need for love and self-respect. At Thornfield, Jane forms a troubled relationship with the enigmatic Rochester, and their bond is tested when Jane uncovers a terrible secret hidden in the house - a revelation that forces Jane to choose between emotional fulfilment and moral integrity.
Polly Teale’s adaption places Jane’s psychology at the centre of the drama. The cast physically embody Janes fears, desires, and memories, giving form to her inner conflict and emotional landscape. This heightened theatrical language brings Bronte’s themes into sharp focus: female autonomy, social constraint, passion versus principle, and the cost of personal freedom. Jane is a story of survival and self-definition, a womans right to remain true to herself in a world determined to limit her voice.
This production will be underscored with original composition by Liz Ryder-Weldon supported by physical and vocal soundscape by the cast.
I am looking for a versatile company of actors to take on multiple roles in this fast-paced physical production where you will be required to be on stage for most of or for the duration of the whole play. Because of the nature of this production, actors will be required to attend most or all of the rehearsals.
Singing: Actors auditioning for Rochester, Blanche Ingram and Bertha are required to provide a self- tape comprising of a verse and chorus of a song of their choice, This should be recorded as an a capella demo and can be sent via email or whatsapp. Tapes should be sent to nettesheridan@gmail.com or 07866 550841 by noon 18th February 2026.
Movement: This is a physical piece and auditionees are required to wear appropriate clothing to the auditions as there will be a movement exercise.
Note on Intimacy: Please note this production includes intimate scenes. This includes scenes of physical violence, restraint, simulated intercourse, kissing and partial nudity.
Best practice will be followed in accordance with the Brighton Little Theatre Intimacy Guidelines.
It is an absolute honour to be directing this play, Brighton Little Theatres 800th production for Brighton Fringe for 2026.
BLT actively encourages auditionees from ethnic minority communities and any of the below parts could be played by any race.
You do not have to be a member of the company to audition, but if you are cast you must join.
Characters
Jane Eyre - Jane is the titular character. We first meet Jane as a young rebellious orphan child, raised by her wealthy but cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed at Gateshead. The story follows her journey from childhood, through her student years at Lowood school, and finally into her role as a governess at Thornfield Hall, and later, school teacher. Jane is plain and unadorned in appearance but possesses deep inner strength. She is strong-willed, resilient, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. Auditionees must be physically and emotionally versatile, able to portray Jane’s development from childhood to adulthood with authenticity and nuance. Must appear considerably younger than Mr Rochester. Yorkshire accent required. Playing age 17-25. Female Presenting
Bertha Mason - Often referred to as "the madwoman in the attic," Bertha is Edward Rochester’s secret wife, hidden away in Thornfield Hall. She is a haunting, tragic presence in the story, more than just a symbol of madness, she represents themes of repression, colonialism, and the consequences of secrecy and betrayal. Bertha’s physicality and presence are powerful and deeply affecting. The part requires a performer with strong physical storytelling skills and emotional depth. This is a highly expressive, movement-based role that requires intensity, vulnerability, and a sense of otherworldly unpredictability. In this production Bertha is all of Jane’s emotions laid bare upon the stage. Likely to have a changing accent throughout the play. Dance or physical theatre experience is a plus as is ability to hold a tune. Playing age: 25-35. Female Presenting
Edward Rochester (doubles as John Reed) - Rochester is the brooding and enigmatic master of Thornfield Hall where Jane is placed as governess. Rochester is a complex and deeply tormented man, carrying the weight of past mistakes and hidden secrets. He is wealthy, intelligent, and fiercely proud, with a sharp wit and a commanding presence. Often aloof and abrupt, he is nonetheless capable of great tenderness and vulnerability, particularly in his evolving relationship with Jane. I am looking for a performer with strong emotional range and presence, someone who can embody Rochester's intensity, passion, and inner conflict, while revealing the humanity beneath his hardened exterior.
This role also doubles as John Reed - the cruel, selfish, arrogant cousin of Jane. A bully, who taunts and verbally abuses her.
Actors auditioning for these roles must be physically able and fit and will be able to hold a tune. Will be well spoken. Playing age 35-45. Male Presenting
Mrs Reed & Mrs Fairfax – Company - Mrs Reed - Jane’s wealthy aunt and guardian, Mrs. Reed is a cold, proud, and deeply resentful woman who never accepts Jane as part of her family. She is emotionally distant, often cruel, and determined to suppress Jane’s spirit. While outwardly composed and proper, her treatment of Jane reveals a harshness rooted in bitterness and social prejudice. This role requires an actor with strong presence and the ability to convey authority, coldness, and suppressed emotion beneath a polished exterior. Well spoken.
Mrs Fairfax - housekeeper of Thornfield Hall, is kind-hearted, dutiful, and maternal, offering Jane a rare sense of warmth and stability upon her arrival. She is proper and well-meaning, though limited by her traditional views and lack of full awareness about the secrets within Thornfield. This role contrasts strongly with Mrs. Reed and calls for a performer who can embody gentleness, wisdom, and quiet dignity. Subtlety and warmth are key, as is the ability to portray sincere concern and restrained emotion. Mild Yorkshire Accent. (Other company roles may be required). Playing age 45-55. Female Presenting
Bessie/Blanche Ingram/Grace Poole/Diana Rivers – Company - Bessie – the nursemaid at Gateshead and one of the few figures in Jane’s early life who shows her genuine, if inconsistent, kindness. Though often brisk and bound by her duties, Bessie has a warm heart beneath her stern exterior. She sometimes scolds Jane, but also comforts her and shares stories that spark Jane’s imagination. Bessie represents a rare source of affection in an otherwise cold and harsh household. Yorskhire Accent.
Blanche Ingram – a beautiful, elegant, and socially ambitious young woman from a wealthy aristocratic family. She is proud, poised, and used to being the centre of attention, especially in the circles of Thornfield’s high society. Blanche is openly interested in Mr. Rochester, seeing him as a desirable match that would elevate her social standing. Beneath her polished exterior, however, she can be cold, vain, and dismissive of those she considers beneath her. This role requires a performer with strong stage presence, the ability to portray charm and social grace, as well as subtle sharpness and vanity. You must be able to hold a tune. Well Spoken.
Grace Poole – the loyal but secretive servant employed at Thornfield Hall, entrusted with caring for Bertha Mason, Mr. Rochester’s hidden wife. She is often mysterious and somewhat elusive, frequently appearing dishevelled or distracted, which adds to the eerie atmosphere surrounding Thornfield. Grace walks a fine line between duty and complicity, burdened by the dark secret she guards. This role requires an actor who can convey quiet tension, ambiguity, and a hint of world-weariness. Grace’s presence should feel watchful and slightly unsettling, embodying the undercurrent of mystery within the household. Yorkshire accent.
Diana Rivers – one of St. John Rivers’ sisters and a distant cousin of Jane Eyre. She is warm, compassionate, and intelligent, providing Jane with much-needed friendship and support after her hardships. Alongside her sister Mary, Diana offers Jane a sense of family and belonging, as well as a glimpse of a more hopeful, nurturing world. She balances kindness with quiet strength, embodying loyalty and genuine affection. Well spoken.
Playing age 25-40. Female Presenting
Helen Burns/Adele/Mary Rivers/ (the)Abigail – Company - Helen - Jane’s first and dearest friend at Lowood School. Gentle, intelligent, and spiritually mature beyond her years, Helen endures cruelty and hardship with quiet grace and deep Christian faith. She serves as a moral and emotional anchor for young Jane, offering kindness, wisdom, and a sense of peace in an otherwise harsh environment. Her death is a pivotal moment in Jane’s early life. This role requires emotional sensitivity and a calm, luminous presence. The actor must convey both physical fragility and inner strength with sincerity and depth. Yorkshire accent.
Adele - Mr. Rochester’s young French ward, left in his care after the death of her mother, a French opera dancer. She is lively, charming, and eager to please—full of energy, imagination, and a flair for the dramatic. Though sometimes spoiled and a little vain, Adèle is ultimately sweet-natured and affectionate, forming a close bond with Jane. This role suits a young actor with strong stage presence, a playful spirit, and the ability to balance light comedic moments with emotional sincerity. Ability to speak English with a French Accent is essential.
Mary – one of St. John Rivers’ two sisters and a distant cousin of Jane Eyre. Intelligent, kind, and quietly strong, Mary offers Jane warmth, companionship, and a sense of family she has long lacked. Alongside her sister Diana, Mary is well-educated and cultured, but grounded and sincere in nature. This is a gentle, supportive role that requires warmth, poise, and the ability to convey quiet intelligence and emotional generosity. The performer should bring a sense of calm stability and familial affection to the stage. Well Spoken.
Abigail - A servant girl at Gateshead – she is named in the novel but is named so here as maids were generally called ‘The Abigail’. Yorkshire Accent.
(the actor will take on other company roles )
Playing age 17-25. Female Presenting
Brocklehurst, St John Rivers, Lord Ingram, Pilot – Company - Brocklehurst - The stern and self-righteous headmaster of Lowood School, Mr. Brocklehurst is a man of rigid religious conviction and harsh discipline. He preaches humility and self-denial while living in personal luxury, embodying hypocrisy and moral arrogance. He plays a key role in Jane’s early life, shaping her resilience through adversity. This role requires a strong stage presence and the ability to portray cold authority, moral rigidity, and controlled intensity. Well Spoken.
St John Rivers – A reserved, principled clergyman, St. John Rivers is Jane’s cousin and a foil to Edward Rochester. Deeply committed to his faith and missionary work, he is intellectual, disciplined, and emotionally restrained. Though he offers Jane stability and purpose, his love is rooted in duty rather than passion. This role requires an actor capable of portraying quiet intensity, moral conviction, and the internal conflict between spiritual ambition and human emotion. Well Spoken.
Lord Ingram – The brother of Blanche Ingram, Lord Ingram is a minor aristocratic character who appears during Jane’s time at Thornfield. He is fashionable, privileged, and somewhat arrogant—representative of the upper-class society that looks down on Jane. Though not a major role, he adds to the atmosphere of social elitism and plays into the world of superficial charm and status. This role suits a performer with strong presence, able to convey entitlement, wit, and a touch of vanity. Well Spoken.
Pilot – Mr Rochester’s large, loyal dog. More than just a pet, Pilot serves as a symbolic extension of Rochester himself: powerful, watchful, and protective, yet with a gentler, affectionate side. The role requires expressive physicality and strong nonverbal communication to convey loyalty, alertness, and emotional sensitivity without words.
(This actor will also take on other Company roles including Clergyman and Footman)
Playing age 35-50. Male Presenting
Richard Mason, Teacher, Rochester’s Horse, Dragon Fly puppeteer, Woman - Richard Mason – The (step)brother of Bertha Mason, Richard arrives unexpectedly at Thornfield and becomes the catalyst for revealing Rochester’s hidden past. He is outwardly reserved and gentlemanly, but there is an underlying nervousness and unease about him. He carries the weight of family duty and secrets, and his presence disrupts the illusion of order at Thornfield. This supporting role requires subtlety and restraint, with the ability to convey tension, discomfort, and quiet determination. Well Spoken.
Teacher – At Lowood – stern, abrupt, gives the news of Helens ill health to Jane. Small character part. Well Spoken.
Rochester’s Horse – Rochester’s horse is a symbol of his rugged, independent spirit and the wild, untamed aspects of his character. Often seen accompanying him on journeys or moments of solitude, the horse reflects Rochester’s connection to nature and his restless energy. The horse’s presence adds movement and atmosphere, emphasizing Rochester’s strength and sometimes his isolation. Must be physically able.
Woman – A threatening, dark presence who represents the decay and depravity of what has passed after the fire at Thornfield. The actor delivers the conclusion through dialogue. Yorkshire Accent.
Playing age 25+. Male Presenting.