Inspired by Henrik’s Ibsen’s 19th century ground-breaking masterpiece that propelled world drama into the modern age, Canberra’s The Street Theatre presents Lucas Hnath’s Tony-award nominated 2017 Broadway hit, A Doll’s House, Part 2, for a limited season from 14 June 2019.
US rockstar playwright Hnath has imagined what happened to Nora, Ibsen’s famous female literary character in A Doll House, after slamming the door to her family home, leaving behind her husband, three children and Norwegian patriarchy.
Embarking on a brave, bold, and shocking new world as a woman on her own, Nora has returned to that same door 15 years later, independent and confident with a high-stakes game of unfinished business on her mind. Hnath’s narrative in this “sequel of sorts” brings to light Nora’s new life as a successful writer of feminist novels and the reason for her audacious and unexpected return after 15 years.
While back in the house, Nora engages in sparring conversations with nanny and housekeeper Anne-Marie, husband Torvald Helmer and daughter Emmy, a matured young woman in her own right. The past is debated and their mutual present pondered by the four characters with ramifications for the future of all. A Doll’s House, Part 2 invites audiences to react and respond to Nora’s return and disruption to their lives.
Starring in the role of Nora is Rachel Berger, one of Australia’s favourite stand-up comedians. Her dynamic presence has made her an extremely popular performer both live and on television, across Australia and internationally.
Torvald Helmer is played by actor and media professional PJ Williams, last seen on The Street stage in his award-winning performance as Poprischin in Diary of a Madman. Anne-Marie is played by Camilla Blunden, with Nathalie Morris returning to Canberra from New Zealand to take on the role of Emmy.
The Street’s production of the play is keeping with the writer’s period setting and costumes and contemporary vernacular. With direction from its celebrated artistic director Caroline Stacey, the creative team, including award-winning designer Imogen Keen (set and costumes), Gerry Corcoran (lighting) and Kyle Sheedy (sound), set the stage for a series of duologues in a domestic arena full of twists and turns.
“Keeps you hanging on each turn of argument and twist of knife. It’s dynamite.” – Time Out New York
Director: Caroline Stacey Featuring: Rachel Berger, Camilla Blunden, Nathalie Morris, PJ Williams Set and Costumes: Imogen Keen Lighting: Gerry Corcoran Sound: Kyle Sheedy
A Doll’s House: Part 2
The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra City West
Season: 15 – 23 June 2019 (preview: 14 June)
Information and Bookings: www.thestreet.org.au
Image: Rachel Berger stars in A Doll’s House: Part 2 (supplied)