Jane Eyre, the musical adaptation by John Caird and Paul Gordon based on Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel, will receive its long-awaited UK premiere at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 28 August to 24 October 2026.
The production will be co-directed by Olivier and Tony Award-winner John Caird, whose extensive credits include co-directing the original production of Les Misérables in the West End and on Broadway. Most recently he staged the acclaimed adaptation of Spirited Away at the London Coliseum.
Caird is joined by Broadway star Megan McGinnis, known for roles in Beauty and the Beast, Little Women and Beetlejuice, who will co-direct the new staging. Casting and full creative details will be announced soon.
John Caird said, “I’m so pleased to have the opportunity to explore a new version of Jane Eyre in the beautifully intimate Southwark Playhouse Elephant. It’s always a pleasure to work on this timeless romance but all the more exciting to be collaborating with the brilliant and innovative Megan McGinnis as co-director.”
Paul Gordon added, “I’m beyond thrilled to finally bring the musical of Jane Eyre to the UK. Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece is not only a landmark portrayal of a strong female protagonist, but a story that sends audiences out of the theatre feeling better about their own lives than when they walked in.”
Producer Adam Blanshay said, “I’ve been a fan of Jane Eyre since its inception, and it’s a tremendous honour to introduce it to UK audiences in a fresh staging. I hope it will particularly resonate with young adults and today’s theatre-goers, capturing the story’s emotional power for a contemporary audience.”
Producer Hannah Mirvish added, “I remember the original version of John and Paul’s musical adaptation of Jane Eyre that we did when I was young. I saw the show more times than I remember. A couple years later I was assigned the book to read in school. Both left their indelible mark on me. Now, to have a chance to bring this story back to the stage is a joy.”
The musical follows Jane’s journey from maltreated orphan to independent womanhood, set against the atmospheric backdrop of Thornfield Hall and its enigmatic owner, Edward Rochester. Themes of secrecy, moral conflict, loss and redemption sit at the heart of this sweeping romance.
Brontë’s iconic novel intertwines gothic undertones, spiritual depth and early feminist ideals. These qualities shape the character of Jane, portrayed as resilient, witty and quietly revolutionary.
Jane Eyre premiered in Toronto in 1996 before transferring to Broadway in 2000, where it was nominated for five Tony Awards. The 2026 Southwark Playhouse production marks its first UK staging, presented in partnership with original Canadian producers David and Hannah Mirvish as part of the show’s 30th anniversary year.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
