By Lonnie the Theater Lady
Henrick Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” premiered in Copenhagen in December of 1879, Since then numerous adaptations have been written for both stage and screen.
The Heritage Players chose Frank McGuinness’ adaptation with the plot focusing on Nora’s (Chelsea Kikel) increasing fear that her seemingly “doting”, somewhat oppressive husband (who treats her like a plaything–a doll), Torvald (Kieran Craft) will learn of the criminal means she employed to secure a bank loan to provide the medical care for him prescribed by their family friend, Dr. Rank (Reed Mack). The treatment was successful in saving the ailing Torvald’s life. Coincidently, the still unpaid loan originated from the same bank where he’s the newly appointed manager.
When bank employee Nils Krogstad (Kamran Mian) learns that he’s going to lose his position at the bank, he threatens to expose Nora’s forgery to Torvald unless she can convince him to keep him employed.
Several twists and turns lead to a surprising or maybe not so surprising ending.
Kikel gives a strong performance. She’s convincingly merry, flirtatious, loving, frightened. angry, frustrated and desperate. Her fluid emotions and mercurial mood swings are all very real. The strength of her work is consistent and her energy unflagging.
Craft comes across as a condescending and controlling man more concerned about his own reputation than his wife’s happiness.
Mian’s stuffy, cold, calculating Kragstad later redeems himself.
Mack has a tender, moving scene with Kikel when he confesses his longtime love for her.
Director, Nancy Caronia makes an interesting choice. Between scenes when the actors exit the stage from the right side, they walk across the theater, from right to left, in front of the audience, (and also in front of the continuing action on the stage), then they walk up the left aisle to exit the auditorium. It distracts from the onstage action.
Declan Hines’ lovely period costumes lend a historic, nostalgic tone. (Nostalgic? Wait — I wasn’t around in 1879, but still –the costumes provide a pleasant touch.)
“The Doll’s House” was inspired by a real life event. A friend of Ibsen’s was sent to an insane asylum by her husband after he learned that she borrowed money to pay for his medical treatment. He was furious that she did something without his permission and had her committed. Ibsen was greatly disturbed by this event and was motivated to write a play that validates women and their need for autonomy, and individual freedom. He saw the need for women to escape the limiting expectations of a patriarchal society.
Seeing this interesting adaptation will surely provoke stimulating discussions about individualism, freedom, self-respect and fulfillment.
LtTL
“A Doll’s House” runs until May 4th at the Elizabeth Seton Center at 1900 Pioneer Avenue, 15226. For tickets and more information, click here.
