Reading the last issue of Brontë Studies we noticed the recent publication of the theatrical adaptation of
Villette that was presented in Scarborough last October by the Frantic Assembly company.
Villette (A playscript) adapted from the novel by Charlotte Brontë, by Lisa Evans is published by Oberon Books (Oberon Modern Plays).
A new life beckons for Lucy Snowe. Leaving England and her past behind, she arrives in the French (sic)
town of Villette, equipped only with a sharp tongue, a lively imagination and an independent spirit. She soon finds work as a teacher, coping with a fierce headmistress and a classroom of unruly coquettish schoolgirls. But Villette has even greater challenges in store. Lisa Evans' fast moving adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's sensational, gothic tale features fire, storms, ghosts, unrequited love and an intimate portrait of a bold and inspirational heroine.
Categories: Theatre, Books, Villette, Charlotte Brontë
From that theatrical description, I pretty much didn't recognize my favorite book by Charlotte Bronte at all. Instead, the play sounds like one of those bad-idea-sitcoms. "Lucy Snowe (Charlotte Rae, in a triumphant return to television) has her hands full with fiesty girls' school students Tootie, Jo, Blair, and Natalie."
ReplyDeleteCan we set up a tribunal of sorts that all of my favorite works of fiction have to pass through before they're adapted for the stage? I'll totally provide juice.
Hi Mike,
ReplyDeleteOh well - it could be worse, much worse!
I see from your blog that you're currently reading Shirley. Nice!
I just started Shirley last week; however, it's been pretty slow going. I haven't been caught up in the same way I was with Villette.
ReplyDelete'Course, Villette is my favorite of all the novels; I should probably stop comparing everything to it.
PS: I found your blog through the Wikipedia entry for Charlotte Bronte.
IMO most 19C novels take a while to get into. Shirley is no exception, and a little more too. But at some point I can tell you it gets going. It's less 'compact' than Villette given the circumstances in which it was written, but it does have its going points. So don't give up just yet!
ReplyDeleteVillette is a great, great novel. Good taste.
Glad you found us! Hope to see you around from now on :)