THIS theatrical take on Charlotte Bronte's 19th century tale of a strong-willed heroine who finds happiness through terrible adversity is darkly entertaining.

The character of Jane Eyre is brought vividly to life in a beautifully staged production.

Jane takes us with her as she faces up to the poor treatment the orphaned, the working-class and many women received in the early 1800s.

After over-coming her sadistic aunt Mrs Reed, mental torment at Lowood boarding school and dodging an epidemic of fatal disease typhus, Jane thinks she has discovered happiness in the arms of her employer Mr Rochester.

However, Rochester has a little secret he does not tell his wife-to-be.

Tricked into marrying a lunatic harridan while on a trip to the West Indies, Rochester's secret lives in a upstairs cupboard in his house and between emitting ear-piercing screams is a part-time arsonist.

Still, with a little more dramatic twists squeezed in Jane finally snares her man and with it general contentment.

The overall production is exemplary and the lead character is played with power and sympathy.

Although perhaps a little over-dramatic at times it certainly made me thankful for my own less exciting life.

Jane Eyre runs until Saturday, March 8. Details from the box office on 01772 258858.