Jane Eyre - Altrincham Garrick

IT’S almost impossible to believe, by today’s standards, that one of English literature’s most iconic novels had to be written under a pseudonym in order to guarantee its publication.

But so it was with Charlotte Bronte who gave us a tale of courage and quiet determination in the sense of overwhelming odds that would break anyone’s spirit. Jane Eyre is every inch the literary heroine.

Then there’s the romantic stuff - totally devoid of any degree of sentiment or slushiness. The course of true love never did run smooth. And then some.

I really enjoyed watching the relationship between Jane and her initially distant and aloof employer Mr Rochester grow, thanks to the natural chemistry between Melanie Beswick and Loui Quelcutti.

With an engaging effortlessness Beswick makes you care about her character which is remarkable really, when you remember she only exists in the author’s amazing imagination and ability to write from the heart.

It’s also a tribute to director Carole Carr who more than makes the most of a multi-talented cast, including one who plays Rochester’s dog.

The production’s final scene also has the power of a film.

Altrincham Garrick is theatrically the place to be at the moment. Fabulous and unmissable.

Until October 12. Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk.

Star rating - *****

Photo by Martin Ogden.