Lyric Hammersmith Theater Announces Full Cast for Gary Owen‘s Adaptation of Ibsen’s “Ghosts“
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The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced the complete cast and creative team for “Ghosts,” a contemporary adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play by acclaimed playwright Gary Owen.Performances are scheduled from April 10 to May 10,2025. This production reunites Owen and director Rachel O’Riordan, following their prosperous collaborations on “Iphigenia in Splott” and “Romeo and Julie.” The modern take on Ibsen’s work promises a fresh outlook on timeless themes.
Callum Scott Howells and Victoria Smurfit, © Sebastian Nevols, Emilie Chen
A Modern Take on a Classic
Gary Owen’s adaptation of “Ghosts” reimagines the story in present-day England, offering a new lens through which to view Ibsen’s enduring themes. The narrative centers on Helena, a woman who has dedicated years to preserving her late husband’s legacy. As she prepares for the grand opening of a children’s hospital named in his honor, her son, oz, returns home. Oz’s arrival brings with it plans that threaten to expose long-buried family secrets and simmering tensions.
Ibsen’s original “Ghosts,” first performed in 1882, was a scathing critique of Victorian morality and societal hypocrisy. By setting his adaptation in contemporary England, Owen aims to highlight the continued relevance of these themes in the 21st century. The play explores issues of inherited guilt, repressed desires, and the destructive power of secrets, all within the context of a seemingly respectable family.
The Cast and Their Roles
The cast includes Patricia Allison, known for her compelling performances, as Reggie.Callum Scott Howells takes on the role of Oz, promising a dynamic portrayal of the returning son. Victoria smurfit stars as helena, the matriarch at the heart of the unfolding drama. Joining them are Rhashan Stone as Anderson, bringing his experiance from “Tambo and Bones” and “Keeping Faith,” and Deka Walmsley as Jacob, adding depth to the ensemble with his background in productions like “Roots” and “Look Back in Anger.”
Victoria Smurfit’s portrayal of Helena is notably anticipated, given the character’s complex emotional landscape. As a woman grappling with the weight of her past and the secrets she has kept, Helena is a demanding role that requires both vulnerability and strength. Callum Scott Howells, as Oz, will navigate the challenges of portraying a character who returns home to confront his family’s legacy and his own identity.
Excitement and Anticipation
Victoria Smurfit expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Lyric and collaborating with Rachel O’Riordan, describing the chance as a wish I had not been brave enough to wish for but one I am thrilled has now come true!
Callum Scott Howells also shared his excitement, praising Owen’s contemporary adaptation of Ibsen’s work and noting that in Rachel O’Riordan’s hands it promises to be an exciting ride.
The anticipation surrounding this production is fueled by the successful track record of both Gary Owen and Rachel O’Riordan. Their previous collaborations have been praised for their insightful interpretations of classic texts and their ability to connect with contemporary audiences. The combination of Owen’s sharp writng and O’Riordan’s directorial vision promises a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant theatrical experience.
The Creative Team
Behind the scenes,a talented creative team is working to bring “Ghosts” to life. Merle Hensel is responsible for the set and costume design, creating a visually compelling world for the characters to inhabit. Simisola Majekodunmi serves as the lighting designer, shaping the atmosphere and mood of the production. Donato Wharton is the sound designer, crafting an immersive auditory experience, and Simon Slater is the composer, adding layers of emotion through music. The casting is expertly handled by Anna Cooper CDG,with Harper K. Hefferon serving as assistant director.
the creative team’s expertise is crucial to translating the emotional power of the script onto the stage. The set design, lighting, and sound will all contribute to creating a cohesive and immersive theatrical experience. The collaboration between these artists will be essential in bringing Owen’s adaptation of “Ghosts” to life in a way that is both faithful to the original and relevant to contemporary audiences.
Ticket Information
Tickets for “Ghosts” at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre are available for purchase now. Don’t miss the possibility to witness this exciting new adaptation of a classic play. Performances run from April 10 to May 10, 2025.
Unmasking Ibsen’s Ghosts: A Modern Reimagining at the Lyric Hammersmith
Did you know that Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts, a play that scandalized Victorian audiences, continues to resonate deeply with modern society? Its themes of inherited trauma, repressed desires, adn societal hypocrisy remain strikingly relevant.
Interviewer (World-Today-News.com): Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading expert in Ibsenian studies and contemporary theater, welcome to World-Today-news.com. Gary Owen’s new adaptation of Ghosts at the Lyric Hammersmith promises a fresh perspective on Ibsen’s classic. What makes this play so enduringly powerful?
Dr. Vance: Thank you for having me. ibsen’s Ghosts is powerful precisely because it tackles timeless human experiences. The play isn’t just about Victorian morality; it delves into the psychological complexities of individuals grappling with inherited guilt, suppressed sexuality, and the devastating consequences of societal hypocrisy. These are themes that transcend time and place,making Ghosts as relevant today as it was in 1882. The enduring appeal lies in its ability to expose uncomfortable truths about family dynamics, societal expectations, and the human capacity for both self-deception and profound suffering.
Exploring the Enduring Themes of Ibsen’s Ghosts
Interviewer: Owen’s adaptation sets the play in contemporary England. How does this shift in context affect the interpretation of Ibsen’s original themes?
Dr. Vance: Setting Ghosts in modern-day England provides a new lens through which to examine these themes. While the Victorian context highlighted the constraints of a rigid social structure, the contemporary setting allows us to explore how these same pressures manifest in diffrent ways today. Think about how inherited trauma, perhaps not in the form of syphilis but through generational poverty, addiction, or mental illness, still impacts families. The societal expectations and hypocrisies may have evolved, but the core struggles of individuals trying to navigate these complex inheritances remain. this modern adaptation allows for a deeper consideration of how these themes intersect with modern issues such as social class, gender roles and mental health.
The Power of Adaptation and the Role of the Director
Interviewer: The production reunites Gary Owen and director Rachel O’Riordan. What role does a director play in breathing new life into a classic play like Ghosts?
Dr. Vance: The director is absolutely crucial. They are the interpreters of the text, tasked with translating the playwright’s vision onto the stage. A skilled director like O’Riordan, with her proven track record, can bring a fresh, contemporary approach to a classic text while still respecting its integrity. Her experience with Owen’s previous work suggests a deep understanding of his style and a shared vision for bringing Ibsen’s work to a modern audience. The director works closely with the actors, designers and other creative professionals to shape the performance. Their expertise brings the playwright’s words to life in a compelling and meaningful way, especially for productions like Owen’s adaptation of Ghosts, requiring subtle and nuanced exploration of the characters’ emotional complexities.
Understanding the Meaning of the Cast and Crew
Interviewer: The cast includes notable actors like Victoria Smurfit and Callum Scott Howells. How important is casting in ensuring a successful production of this nature?
Dr. Vance: Casting is paramount. The actors are the embodiment of the characters; they bring the words to life with their performances. Choosing actors who are capable of conveying the emotional depth and nuance of Ibsen’s characters is critical, especially for roles as complex as Helena and Oz. Smurfit and Howells, given their experience and critical acclaim, are excellent choices. Their interpretation will be key to illuminating the enduring power of Ibsen’s story; notably the actor portraying Helena, who must convincingly convey the profound internal conflict and suppressed emotions within the character. this type of dramatic interpretation, from a highly skilled cast, plays a significant role in conveying the nuances and complexities of this play. Furthermore, having a creative team that shares a vision will ensure a cohesive theatrical experience.
The Relevance of Ibsen’s Ghosts in the 21st Century
Interviewer: What are some of the key takeaways from this new adaptation of Ghosts that modern audiences should consider?
Dr. Vance: Audiences should consider the following key takeaways from this new adaptation of Ghosts:
The lasting impact of inherited trauma: We are not simply products of our own choices; our past, familial history and experiences shape who we are.
The dangers of repressing emotions and secrets: Keeping secrets, particularly those that deal with significant personal trauma and shame, can have profoundly destructive consequences for individuals and families.
The continuing relevance of societal hypocrisy: Society often rewards conformity while punishing those who deviate from the accepted norms, leading to hidden struggles and devastating consequences.
Interviewer: Dr.Vance, thank you for your illuminating insights.This interview offers a superb overview of the theatrical production, discussing the playwright’s approach and the role of directors and cast members in breathing new life into such a timeless play.Thank you for sharing your expertise and helping our readers understand the enduring power and remarkable relevance of Ibsen’s Ghosts*.
Our readers can now leave comments below, or share their opinions and perspectives on these timeless themes on social media using #GhostsAdaptation & #Ibsen.