Collegiate Premiere of J.Eyre Opens Thursday at AU
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Anderson, Ind. — Anderson University’s Boze Lyric Theatre is ready to make history this weekend as it hosts the world collegiate premiere of J.Eyre, Paige Scott’s musical version of Charlotte Brontë’s novel “Jane Eyre.”
Fans of the novel can expect the same gothic, compelling story about Jane’s struggles to find freedom, acceptance, and love. Scott, an Indianapolis playwright and composer, maintained the storyline of the novel, while adding in music that adds a special element to the story.
“When I saw the show, originally produced in Indianapolis, I was taken with the intimacy of the production and also its quick pacing,” said Kenny Shepard, director of J.Eyre. “I’m a fan of many horror movies, and this musical version has a similar feel to some of my favorites, combining suspense and anticipation in its quick cuts and haunting music.”
Tori Adler, a senior musical theatre major, will play the role of Jane. Jay Ganz (set design), Matthew Cunningham (lighting), Michele Mullins (costumes), and Johnna Tavianini (music) will help bring the show to life. Stage manager Nina Ludwick is producing an original cast recording that will be engineered by music business students under the direction of Dr. Becky Chappell.
“The confidence I have in Tori, the cast and design team couldn’t be greater, and we’re excited to bring Charlotte Brontë’s story under Paige Scott’s unique lens to AU,” said Shepard.
J.Eyre opens at Byrum Hall Thursday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m. There will be another show Friday evening at 7:30 with two more on Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. This is a ticketed event with limited, onstage seating. For more information, call the Reardon Box Office at (765) 641-4140.
Anderson University educates students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult, graduate, and online programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized for excellence in business, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, music, nursing, psychology, and teacher education programs. Established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God, the university remains committed to its Christ-centered mission.