Edinburgh Fringe 2026 - Spotlight On: Jane Eyre Convention

This 'Edinburgh Fringe - Spotlight On' series takes a look at the shows I will be reviewing at this year's festival and a 5-question Q&A with the creative teams.

📸 Image received from Press Team

Synopsis: At the world's first ever Jane Eyre Convention, slightly neurotic aficionados gather to reenact their favourite novel. 

They squabble and fight over the best bits, correct interpretation etc. Real emotions are experienced as they follow Jane on her journey, including running wailing across the moors. They also attempt to rescue shackled Bertha in the attic. Finally they gain new insights and generally feel better. 

Show contains unrealistic violence, bonnets and minimal raunch. It may be mildly therapeutic and audience participation is optional. 

Q&A with Eleanor Zeal (Writer)

Q: What inspired you to create this show?

A: I couldn’t work out why there were so many films and theatre productions of Jane Eyre, having got distracted while reading it at school, so I reread it and realised why. It has everything: rags to riches story with unlikely love match, plenty of suffering before a happy ending and exquisitely written.So it seemed an obvious step for there to be a convention for the fans who would have differing ideas and interpretations as well as their own neuroses.

Q: What can audiences expect when they come to see the show at Edinburgh Fringe?

A: They can expect joy and hilarity with broad comedy/farce, compelling fan characters as well as occasional thoughtful questions about themes in the novel. Also real bonnets and biscuits.

Q: Why should audiences add your show to their Fringe schedule this year?

A: This show should be added because it’s a real tonic of a piece, a refreshing and inspiring take on a classic novel presented by an exceptional cast with infectious energy.

Jane Eyre Convention is running at Just The Snifter Room at Just The Tonic at The Mash House from 6th to 28th August at 12:35pm