Heartwood Theater will soon present a free online, fully-produced film production of Henrik Ibsens’ “Rosmersholm.”

Originally on the calendar for live performance last spring, the play had been cast and set construction well underway, when the pandemic made it necessary to cancel.  It’s no secret that Director Griff Braley enjoys the classics, and (most of) the original cast of six remained available and eager for the opportunity to dig deep into the rich text and themes of this passionate and political thriller. Ibsen is known for his style of realism, within theater, which purposefully portrays actual human life in a specific time and place, increasing viewers’ level of awareness and consciousness of the complicated relationships, internal struggles and situations of these characters.

In 2010, Heartwood produced Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People.”  At that time, Braley read many of Ibsen’s plays, adding “Rosmersholm” to the list of future want-to-do-plays. 

Braley explains, “Overall, I enjoy the seriousness of the core themes, the gnarly dramatic structure, and the challenge of large characters in life changing situations, played out in a small place.  ‘It's so Heartwood,” as one actor said.

The production is being acted and filmed on a realistic interior set, designed and built in Heartwood’s studio.  The play moves quickly and passionately through events which turn an entire town upside down, in a single day. 

Audiences may access this production online at www.heartwoodtheater.org, on or after May 13.  Donations would be greatly appreciated, for this outstanding production. 

“This is our final gift to our community and audience,” notes Executive Director Joy Braley, “before we return to the excitement of live theater this summer, with outdoor performances of ‘Pride and Prejudice.’”

“Rosmersholm” is made possible with the help of Season Sponsor, Bath Savings Institution, Show Sponsor, J & H Landscaping, and Online Streaming Sponsor, HM Payson. 

For more information about Heartwood, this production and others, visit www.heartwoodtheater.org