Australian premiere: 26 May 2005, The Street Theatre Canberra

Chamber opera in 2 acts, based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë
Music by Michael Berkeley Libretto by David Malouf

British composer Michael Berkeley and Australian writer David Malouf have transformed Brontë’s masterpiece into an intense psycho-drama exploring the love affair between Jane and Rochester, as shocking secrets unfold around them. Based on the events at Rochester’s country house Thornfield, the opera also examines the plight of Rochester’s mad wife from a new perspective. Time is treated kaleidoscopically, with flashbacks and offstage voices from the past. Berkeley's cinematic music embodies a sense of entrapment that combines with David Malouf's inspired libretto to create a surreal, dreamlike landscape. Stopera’s 2005 Australian premiere production was mentored by David Malouf and Michael Berkeley travelled from the UK to be present at the opening.

‘With Jane Eyre, Stopera has set a new benchmark. The cast gave an evening of constantly unfolding theatrical pleasures superbly performed and richly rewarding.‘ Artlook Magazine July 2005. more>

‘An important and engrossing evening which thoroughly warrants repetition elsewhere.’ Opera Opera Magazine July 05.more>

‘This exceedingly fine production can be highly recommended as offering a memorable operatic experience.’ The Canberra Times May 2005 > Mor

Conductor: Rick Prakhoff
Director: Caroline Stacey
Design: Kaoru Alfonso
Costumes: Anna Senior

Cast:Jane Eyre (sop): Rebecca Collins
Rochester (bar): Gary Rowley
Mrs Rochester (mz): Maria Danielle-Sette
Adèle (sop): Sara Carvalho
Mrs Fairfax (mz): Eleanor Greenwood

Ensemble: 14 musicians
flute(+picc+alto flute);oboe(+cor anglais); clarinet (+E flat, A & bass clarinet); bassoon (+contra bassoon); french horn; trumpet; trombone; percussion (2 players); harp; violin ; viola; cello; doublebass

Duration: 75 min