FOLLOWING on from of the success with its version of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, Shropshire-based touring company Hotbuckle returns to Skipton next weekend with Charlotte Bronte’s compelling tale of Jane Eyre.

The classic story - memorably made into a Hollywood film in 1943 staring Orson Welles and Joan Fontaine - is being brought to life at Skipton Town Hall on Saturday, November 3.

Bronte’s Jane Eyre is orphaned and is banished by her cruel aunt, Mrs Reed, to Lowood Institute where she endures further cruelty.

She eventually finds her freedom by becoming a governess to the ward of the enigmatic Mr Rochester at Thornfield Hall. As Jane and Rochester’s relationship grows, it is overshadowed by doubt, dark shadows and terrible secrets; and she must choose between passion and reason.

Fiona Leaning, the theatre company’s creative director, said: “We produce new writing and original work, but are best known for our adaptations of traditional, classic works of literature. We don’t like to conform when we adapt these tales - we like to think we don’t just do what people expect.

“Our style is distinctive - lightning fast costume changes, humour, but above all we strive to make whatever story we are telling as human as possible. Novels that may well have seemed impenetrable before will be unlocked and freed for an audience to enjoy.”

Danielle Daglan, programming and venue development manager at Craven District Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back Hotbuckle after their fantastic performance of Wuthering Heights last year.

“This is a great opportunity to experience Charlotte Bronte’s classic tale – Hotbuckle are brilliant at helping audiences to see literature in a new light.”

Hotbuckle’s Jane Eyre is at 7.30pm on Saturday, November 3. Tickets cost £10 for adults and £8 for under-18s. Available to buy online at: cravendc.gov.uk/skipton-town-hall or from the Box Office 01756 792809.