Theatre for the blind gives unique insight at Upton Village Hall show

Feb 15 2010 by Laurie Stocks-Moore, Chester Chronicle

BLIND people will have a unique theatrical experience as a classic novel is brought to life.

Upton Dramatic Society will, in their 75th anniversary season, stage a production of Charlotte Bronte's haunting tale of love and loss, Jane Eyre.

The March 18 performance will mark a first for amateur theatre in Chester as it will give those with sight loss a chance to enjoy the production along with sighted audience members. Touch tours of the set will be available prior to the performance together with a summary of the action. The society see this as a first step to providing a fully described performance when funds can be found to purchase the necessary specialists equipment.

Jane Eyre will be presented at Upton Village Hall from Wednesday, March 17 through to Saturday, March 20 and will be directed by Michael Fair, who played Rene in the production of Allo Allo.

Michael said: “This will be another departure from our traditional productions as we try to give both our members and audiences a variety of theatre experiences.

“Jane Eyre is quite a dark tale and this will test our actors to the full and I will be looking to develop an atmosphere that draws the audience into the intensity and mystery of the story”.

Upton Dramatic Society donated £700 to the Upton British Legion Poppy Appeal following their record breaking production of Allo Allo.

Society Chairman Ian Hughes said “This year we broke all box office records. Allo Allo completely sold out all five performances of the stage play of the much loved BBC TV series, which is why we were able to make such a large donation to the Poppy Appeal.