Review: A Doll's House at the Duke Of York's Theatre

A Doll's House
Duke Of York's Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday 15th August 2013

A Doll's House is a story of debt, blackmail, friendship and love. 

When Henrik Ibsen’s play was first published it was highly controversial and Ibsen was forced to re-write the ending. Although Olivier award-winning playwright Simon Stephens’ new version isn't quite as controversial today, it still evokes quite a response from the audience. Even during the first few scenes, Nora (played by Hattie Morahan) speaks extremely openly about her financial situation causing many awkward laughs from audience members.

Carrie Cracknell’s production of this text heavy play has already enjoyed two sold out runs at The Young Vic prior to its West End transfer. Although I think Ian MacNeil's set design sits better in The Young Vic, it is still impressive and hugely effective in the Duke Of York's Theatre. The stage revolves, revealing the various rooms in the Helmer's house. Certain scenes, including the opening and the hide and seek sequence, look spectacular as the cast are seen running from room to room as the stage revolves, the choreography and staging is perfect and helps to convey how Nora finds herself trapped in 'A Doll's House'.

Hattie Morahan's extraordinary portrayal of Nora is utterly captivating. She has the entire audience hanging off her every word. Hattie has been playing the role since June 2012 (with breaks in-between each run) and I do not know how she has managed to keep her performance so fresh. She really does give a masterclass in acting and her detailed performance is an absolute 'must-see'. I am still baffled as to why she didn't win the Olivier Award for Best Actress earlier this year (although of course Helen Mirren is also brilliant). 

The rest of the cast are also strong, especially Dominic Rowan as Torvald who turns out to be a narrow minded man who represents the shocking attitudes towards woman in the late 1870s (afterwards, I heard many people saying they wanted to give him a slap!). Steve Toussaint is quite endearing as Doctor Rank while Caroline Martin, who has joined the cast as Kristine Linde, fits in perfectly and brings a new sternness to the role.

I am a huge fan of Ibsen's work, the way he writes big female leads such as Nora and Hedda Gabler is just fascinating. He always strikes the perfect balance between gentle humour and dramatic plot climaxes. If you want to see an outstanding production of a traditional play I can think of no better show, you simply must see A Doll's House.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

andrew@westendframe.com

A Doll's House runs at the Duke Of York's Theatre until 26th October 2013.

Click here to book tickets (top price seats reduced to £31.50 at certain performances).

Photo Credit: Johan Persson

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