BOLTON THEATRE
Jane Eyre
Octagon Theatre
Howell Croft South
Until February 10

“I am no bird and no net ensnares me — I am a free human being with an independent will.” Thus Jane Eyre who, penniless and alone, emerges from a bleak childhood to make her way in life as a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with her mysterious employer Mr Rochester. But he is hiding a terrible secret that could ruin everything and this new adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's great novel by Janys Chambers and Lorna French is a dramatic version of how her indomitable spirit, wit and courage drives her to fight for her independence and to follow her heart whatever the obstacles. Jessica Baglow (pictured) takes the title role.
octagonbolton.co.uk

GLASGOW MUSIC
Beth Orton + Blue Rose Code
02 ABC Glasgow
Sauchiehall Street
February 2

Blessed with one of the most distinctive voices in British music, Beth Orton is noted for pairing her inimitable voice to a synthesis of electronic and acoustic instruments. She consistently challenges perceptions of her music and is able to effortlessly bridge the previously unseen musical gaps between the Chemical Brothers and Bert Jansch. At this gig, which promises to be a stand-out at Celtic Connections, she's supported by Blue Rose Code whose repertoire mixes folk, soul, pop and jazz.
celticconnections.com

HASTINGS/TOURING PERFORMANCE
The Lynching
White Rock Theatre
White Rock
January 26

In this one-woman show Jackie Walker shares her life story in what is partly a conversation with her mother, an African-American civil-rights activist, and she also tackles her suspension from the Labour Party for alleged anti-semitism. According to Alexei Sayle, “it's a great night... [Walker] possesses a lovely singing voice and the honed acting skills of a veteran performer… she's very funny and frank.” Can't say fairer than that.
eventbrite.com