Nora (Bryn Robins McLeod) is a flighty little bird, a feather-brain, or so says her insufferably paternalistic husband Torvald (Blake Pendergast). Their marriage is based on the premise that Torvald is the provider and Nora is the eye-candy. The dramatic tension comes from Nora’s yearning to be more, and from a potentially damaging secret that she has kept from her husband. There’s plenty of still-pertinent social commentary in this play, but unfortunately in this production, a lack of depth in characterization and the glacial pacing of the third act turn it into a painful melodrama. The director (Bethany Hindmarsh) has chosen to set the play (originally performed in 1879) in the 1950s, but the dialogue and situation simply doesn’t ring true to the era, although the costumes (by Clare Funston) are lovely to look at. Still, it is obvious that this is a talented and dedicated cast and crew, and I have no doubt that with a play more suited to their youth and life experience, they would shine.
A Doll’s House runs November 4th to 7th at 8PM at The Pit. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 general admission. Call 422-6011 ext. 102 to reserve.
