A Doll's House

Most people grow out of playing with dolls when they are youngsters, but those who stepped into The Crucible this week were able to strike a glimpse into a far more serious and damning version of playtime as ‘A Doll’s House’ opened in Sheffield. To call this a production would be a disservice to the breadth of passion on display as the cast and crew delivered such an impassioned and powerful performance that it truly defined the power and capability of what a theatre performance can be.

Based on the 1879 play by Henrik Ibsen, this performance has been adapted for modern theatregoers by Chris Bush (Standing At The Sky’s Edge) and directed by Ellin Schofield (Scissors). It is testament to the subtlety and the care that has been taken by Bush and Schofield that this adaptation feels fresh and new without ever feeling like it is losing sight of what made the original so powerful in the first place. The story revolves around Nora Helmer, performed wonderfully by Sienna Kelly, and the seemingly wonderful life that she leads at her with her husband and children. What unfolds over the two hours and fifty minutes runtime, however, is an incredibly prophetic, revealing and honest examination into gender roles and the gender dynamics which exist within society and within families.

It is very easy to feel completely immersed in the story that is being told as the set design is outstanding, yet simple. Being in the audience really feels like you are in the exact house that the characters inhabit which really brings you closer to the characters words, thoughts and feelings. The true strength of ‘A Doll’s House’ though is the utterly outstanding acting performances from every single member of the cast. Each cast member breathes buckets full of life, depth and raw human emotion into their characters and this truly is what sells the story that unfolds around them. The final scene, in particular, starring the fantastic BAFTA nominated Sienna Kelly (Adult Material) is moving and affirming and left the entire theatre in a stunned state of silence. It is rare to see an audience so gripped by mere words but Kelly’s delivery was so delivered with power, simplicity and passion.

Step into the dolls house as ‘A Doll’s House’ runs in Sheffield until Saturday 12th October. I promise, you won’t regret it when you walk back out.

Photo credit: Mark Douet