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The Master Builder
By Henrik Ibsen
Adapted by Matthew Ira Swaye
Directed by Adam Webster
Produced by New Leaf Theatre
At the Lincoln Park Cultural Center
2045 N. Lincoln Park West
Chicago, IL
Call 773-274-9026, tickets $15
Thursday through Saturday at 8 PM
Running time is 65 minutes with intermission
Through October 21, 2006
Short version of Ibsen classic fails to deliver
Matthew Ira Swaye’s “gutted and rehabbed” Master Builder never comes close to attaining the power and dramatic intensity of Henrik Ibsen’s original work. This Cliff Notes version has no chance since it is so abbreviated that we never get to understand and care about Halvard Solness’ fears. We are thrust into his world and are never given the chance to discover what he is about despite Steve Ratcliff’s valiant effort.
When Hilda Wangle (the stiff and rigid Jenny Hylas), now 23 years old comes to live with Halvard, his world becomes more upsetting because he fears that the younger generation does indeed threaten his place in society. In this much too short treatment, we never full understand nor appreciate the angst of the characters. I was left with more questions than answers after seeing this show. I had to do research to understand this play. That isn’t a good sign. The acting was largely wooden and uninspiring with several players mumbling so badly I couldn’t understand them. New Leaf Theatre usually does stronger work so we can forgive them for this turkey. Possibly students may find this show easier than reading the play.
Not Recommended
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com for comments
Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2006
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