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Experience the classic romantic drama as it’s never been told before. Tess Sinke’s latest original ballet, Jane Eyre, explores the story of the beloved 19th century novel by English author Charlotte Brontë. A tale of moral responsibility, social injustice and the role that women play in it all, Jane Eyre will delight ballet and literary lovers alike.


Based on Charlotte Brontë’s classic work

one weekend only

Show Info

Showtimes

Friday, October 18 at 7pm

Saturday, October 19 at 7pm

Sunday, October 20 at 2pm

Tickets: $35 General Admission

St. Cecilia Music Center

Learn more about the venue here: St. Cecilia Music Center

world premiere by tess sinke

jane eyre


Learn the Story

Curated Reading List from Grand Rapids Public Library

We’ve all at least heard of the classic novel, Jane Eyre. Looking to get your hands on the book, or spinoffs that help develop the narrative even further? We were honored to consult with the Grand Rapids Public Library on a curated reading list celebrating the world premiere of Jane Eyre! Check it (and some books!) out below:


Book Synopsis

Jane Eyre is a beloved novel by 19th-century English author Charlotte Brontë. Written from a first-person perspective, the story follows the life of its titular heroine and narrator, starting with her troubled childhood. Orphaned at a young age, Jane is first mistreated by her aunt, the cruel Mrs. Reed, and then sent to the harsh Lowood School for underprivileged girls. While at Lowood, Jane befriends Helen Burns and learns to survive the harsh conditions. Helen’s death rocks Jane’s young life, reintroducing her to tragedy and loss. Later, Jane leaves Lowood to become a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she meets the mysterious Mr. Rochester, and falls in love—hard. Yet, her road to romance and happiness is riddled with obstacles, heartbreak, and difficult decisions. Jane is a strong, independent woman who stands up for herself. She refuses to compromise her values or self-respect, even for the man she adores. She also feels deeply. The passionate love story between Jane and Mr. Rochester is key to the book's enduring appeal. Jane Eyre has remained popular over time, inspiring numerous film and television adaptations. Tess Sinke is one of very few choreographers who have tackled bringing “Jane Eyre” to the professional dance stage.

Further Watching


Meet the Cast

Leah Haggard as

JANE

Other Roles: Young Jane

Photo by Dave Burgess

Madison Massara-Leister as

BERTHA

Other Roles: School Girl, Shadow, and Jane’s Mother

Photo courtesy of Madison Massara-Leister

Michael Burke* as

MR. ROCHESTER

*Guest Artist // Deos Summer Company Member

Photo by Isabelle Ramey


Allison Haan as

MRS. FAIRFAX

Other Roles: Jane (Understudy), School Girl, Shadow, and Mrs. Reed

Photo by Dave Burgess

Bronwyn Smith* as

Adele

Other Roles: School Girl, Shadow, and Helen Burns (Understudy) *Guest Artist

Photo courtesy of Bronwyn Smith

Isabelle Ramey as

Helen Burns

Other Roles: Bertha (Understudy), Blanche Ingram, Bessie, and Shadow

Photo by Dave Burgess


Lauren Hansen as

Grace Poole

Other Roles: Reed Daughter, Adele (Understudy), School Girl, and Shadow

Photo by Dave Burgess

Martha Bellamy* as

Charlotte Brontë

*Guest Artist

Maren Lowry* as

Ingram Guest

*Deos Contemporary Ballet Intern and Michigan Ballet Academy student


Darrell Haggard* as

Mr. Brocklehurst

Other Roles: St. John Rivers, Jane’s Father *Guest Artist

Photo courtesy of Darrell Haggard

Austin Leader* as

The Vicar

Other Roles: Uncle Reed *Guest Artist

Photo by Rachel Britton Photo

David Armbrecht* as

Richard Mason

Other Roles: Reed Son *Guest Artist

Photo courtesy of David Armbrecht


Tess Sinke

Choreographer

Photo by Dave Burgess

Grace Sinke

Costumer

Photo courtesy of Grace Sinke

Summer Odell Ovies

Acting Coach