Review: Hedda Gabler at The Old Vic

Photo Credit: Johan Persson

Hedda Gabler

The Old Vic
Performance: Saturday 22nd September 2012 (Matinee)

Played out swiftly over 24 hours, Ibsen’s startlingly resonant play is a thrilling portrayal of the free-spirited Hedda Gabler. Railing against a life of crippling convention Hedda Gabler cuts through the lives of everyone in her orbit.

Sheridan Smith is a walking definition of the word versatile. Hedda Gabler could not be more different to Elle Woods in Legally Blonde or Doris in Flare Path. Sheridan plays Hedda with such incredible depth. Hedda Gabler is an intriguing character with endless layers. One minute you find her amusing, then you hate her and then you feel sympathy for her. Sheridan has perfected her portrayal of Hedda and I cannot find the words to give her enough praise for her performance. 

Lez Brotherston's design of the show is incredible. It allows the most powerful images to be created which really adds so much tension to the play. It was also clever how the actors used the back rooms of the set when they weren't in a scene. This added to the atmosphere and made everything seem so real.

Adrian Scarborugh shines as George Tesman, although at first it was strange seeing him play Sheridan's husband after watching him play Sheridan's farther in the ITV drama 'Mrs Biggs'. Adrian filled The Old Vic with his massive energy. In one scene the juxtaposition of George's joy and Hedda's heartbreak was extremely powerful to watch and had a massive impact on the audience. 

 Adrian Scarborough and Sheridan Smith, Photo Credit: Johan Persson

Hedda Gabler is an extremely powerful play which leaves you with something to think about. It features world class actors performing in a world class venue - you really must try and see it before it closes in November.

Visit www.oldvictheatre.com/hedda-gabler to find out more and to book tickets.