Monmouth University brings Henrik Ibsen’s scandalous 19th century masterpiece into the modern era. A Doll’s House follows a vibrant but sheltered housewife as she navigates a world in which women have no autonomy. As events spiral beyond her control, Nora’s journey of self awareness builds toward one of the most controversial endings in theatrical history. Directed by Sheri Anderson.
The play is set in the backyard of two adjoining houses in the working class neighborhood of South Philadelphia. They are about to celebrate the 21st birthday of Francis Geminiani, a Harvard student, when two classmate friends from Harvard and Yale, Judith and Randy, show up unexpectedly. Since there isn’t a spare bedroom in either house they pitch a tent in the backyard. Francis’ classmates, the wealthy Judith seeks romance with Francis not realizing that her brother Randy is the object of Francis’ unexpressed affection. Each of the characters in the play are dysfunctional to some degree and their celebration of Francis’ birthday brings out the best of comedy and drama. The birthday party is a series of comic incidents that provide laughter and serious realizations that lead up to the final joyous ending. The crazy fast moving celebration leaves each character a bit wiser and happier having celebrated Francis’ 21st birthday.
Monmouth University brings Henrik Ibsen’s scandalous 19th century masterpiece into the modern era. A Doll’s House follows a vibrant but sheltered housewife as she navigates a world in which women have no autonomy. As events spiral beyond her control, Nora’s journey of self awareness builds toward one of the most controversial endings in theatrical history. Directed by Sheri Anderson.
