YORK hosts a new stage version of Anne Brontë’s story of mystery, intrigue, betrayal and love.

Deborah McAndrew’s adaptation of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is being staged next week in a-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton.

Despite often being often overshadowed by her elder sisters Charlotte and Emily, Anne Brontë has become recognised as a brilliant novelist in her own right in recent years.

Many scholars, biographers and feminist literary critics have praised Anne for her forward-thinking, creative talent, and ability to genuinely write about issues that affected the everyday lives of women.

Her 1848 novel The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is an ardent story of a woman’s fight against oppression, which challenged the social norms and laws of the time.

Director Elizabeth Newman, artistic director of Octagon Bolton Theatre, said audiences would be transported into a world of mystery, intrigue, betrayal and love.

She said: “Deborah’s adaptation has beautifully captured the passion and the bravery of Anne Brontë’s exquisite novel, which follows one woman’s fight for independence against all odds.”

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 with her attraction to Markham and the secrets of her past, Helen finally reveals the shocking history she thought she had left behind.

The play stars Phoebe Pryce and Michael Peavoy.

Deborah McAndrew’s previous writing work includes An August Bank Holiday Lark which won Best New Play at the UK Theatre Awards in 2014.

Her new adaptation of Cyrano for Northern Broadsides is currently touring the UK.

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is staged from Wednesday, April 26 to May 6.

Visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or call 01904 623568 to book tickets..