The Father (1887)

Details of the performance of Strindberg's 1887 play 'The Father'

Director, Adaptor

Jonathan Ellman

Cast

The Father – Charlie Hanks

Laura – Amanda Bottomly

The Nurse – Maria Kheyfets

This was an adapted version of The Father, incorporating modern 'method acting' techniques, digital communication and applying Strindberg's comments on stage directions in his Preface to Miss Julie, that actors should be free to turn their backs on the audience.

The adaptation maintained the cohesion of the original plot, the family relationships, gender dynamics and personal power struggles of the original, which on the level of individual relationships resonate today. While the distance European societies have moved on was highlighted, with attention drawn to scientific advances in DNA tests for fatherhood and legal changes regarding child custody.

Document
The Father script (33.48 KB / DOCX)

(Points raised in the audience discussion can be found on the performance page)