Ghosts
Alexander Mørk-Eidem does not simply unravel the stories of the Alving family: the production is also a retrospective of the 125 years long history of Ghosts itself.
Directed by Alexander Mørk Eidem
Helene Alving is entertaining visitors at the manor house by the sea. Two of the most important people in her life, who have nonetheless been absent for many years, have finally returned. Reverend Manders was a close confidant, but they lost touch when the Alvings left the city. Meanwhile, her beloved son Osvald has lived abroad for many years, making a living as an artist.
Ghosts is one of Ibsen’s most staged, most discussed plays, raising taboo subjects such as syphilis, incest, and infidelity. The play also leaves many questions unanswered, still challenging new generations of directors and actors: Why did Osvald and Manders really disappear? And why do they choose to return?
Alexander Mørk-Eidem does not simply unravel the stories of the Alving family: the production is also a retrospective of the 125 years long history of Ghosts itself. Stage curtains and decorative elements from previous productions slowly, but surely disappear as the secrets and lies of the Alving family are brought into the light. In the end, the ghosts are out of the closet, the stage stripped. Remaining alone are the people facing a truth they have to live with. Or not.
The part of Mrs Alving in Ghosts is Anne Marit Jacobsen’s first major Ibsen part since her legendary debut as Hedvig in NRK’s televised production of The Wild Duck in 1973.
Director: Alexander Mørk Eidem. Scenographer and costume designer: Olav Myrtvedt. Dramaturge: Gerd Stahl.