A CLASSIC novel by Anne Brontë will be brought to the stage in York next month.

York Theatre Royal will present The Tenant Of Wildfell Hall in a co-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton.

The play is based on the 1848 novel written by Emily and Charlotte’s less-renowned sister.

It is described as a passionate story of a woman’s fight for independence, and has been adapted by award-winning playwright Deborah McAndrew.

In 19th century Yorkshire, a mysterious young widow, Helen Graham, and her son arrive at the desolate estate of Wildfell Hall. Isolating herself from the village, she soon becomes the subject of local gossip and speculation.

Intrigued by this beautiful and enigmatic woman, a young farmer, Markham, gradually falls in love. Torn apart by her attraction to Markham and the secrets of her past, Helen finally reveals the shocking history she thought she had left behind.

The Tenant Of Wildfell Hall will be performed from April 25 to May 6. Visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or call 01904 623568.

Jane Eyre An Autobiography will be presented at York Theatre Royal on March 27 and 28.

Rebecca Vaughan will play Charlotte Brontë’s heroine, along with other characters, in the “radical” one-woman play – a gothic subversion of a fairytale romance.