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Culture Theatre

Review: Hedda Gabler

HEDDA GABLER by Henrik Ibsen (Necessary Angel/Canadian Stage). At the Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley). Runs to February 7. $24-$53. 416-368-3110. See listing. Rating: NNN

What is it about our continuing fascination with the 50s? First came Mad Men. Then Todd Hayness Carol. And now Necessary Angels Jennifer Tarver has directed Henrik Ibsens chilly classic Hedda Gabler as if it were a steamy 50s film noir.

The production is certainly stylish, from the pre-show appearance of Steve Cumyns sexually ambiguous Judge Brack walking down an aisle (the actor seems to be channelling Clifton Webb in a movie framing device) to the lush, melodramatic notes of E.C. Woodleys soundscape, an homage to 50s soundtracks.

And then theres Hedda herself. Played by Cara Ricketts, she gets to wear three outfits, a slinky, silky robe, a fabulous taupe cocktail dress (which she even sleeps in!) and a stunning black jumper perfect for lounging about and… doing what, exactly?

Perhaps thats Tarvers point. This Hedda, in a new translation by Jon Robin Baitz, is a pretty, clever yet bored woman who thought she was marrying up but has suddenly realized her academic husband (a delightfully geeky Frank Cox-OConnell) might not get that professorship.

And so, in a society that doesnt allow her to do much except look good, she acts out, which is easy when her ex, Ejlert Lovborg (Christopher Morris), shows up in town.

The always watchable Ricketts exudes glamour, and she throws herself into the role, using little physical gestures clasping her arms behind her back, for instance to suggest Heddas restlessness. The revelation is Morris, whose intense Lovborg gives the play its passion and drive. Watching him move around the stage is thrilling.

Unfortunately, Cumyns asexual Brack (Im sure this was a directorial decision) doesnt provide much opposition for Hedda, and the result is an unbalanced production.

Teresa Przybylskis costumes, and her layered set which also suggests a widescreen movie image gives the audience lots to look at. But there should be more of a dramatic payoff in a show that runs two-and-a-half hours.

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