Nia DaCosta’s adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play “Ghosts” has been making waves in the theater world since its release. The production has been praised for its bold changes and modern spin on the 1891 masterwork, but some critics have also noted that it still captures the same bitter aftertaste as its original version.
The play, which tells the story of a family haunted by their past and the ghosts that continue to haunt them, has been a timeless classic for over a century. But DaCosta’s adaptation takes a different approach, delving deeper into the characters and their motivations, and exploring more timely themes that are relevant to today’s society.
One of the most significant changes that DaCosta makes to the play is the setting. Instead of the traditional Norwegian town, the story takes place in present-day America. This change allows for a more diverse cast and also adds a layer of relatability to the characters and their struggles. DaCosta also makes subtle changes to the characters themselves, making them more complex and giving them more agency in their own story.
For example, the central character of Mrs. Alving, played brilliantly by Tony Award-winner Anika Noni Rose, is given a stronger voice and a more prominent role in the play. She is no longer just a victim of her husband’s actions but is shown to be a strong, independent woman who fights for her beliefs and stands up against societal expectations.
DaCosta also tackles issues of race, gender, and sexuality in her adaptation, which were not explored in the original play. This adds a whole new dimension to the story and makes it more relevant to today’s audience. The character of Regina, played by Tessa Thompson, is portrayed as a biracial woman struggling to find her place in a society that discriminates against her. This adds a layer of complexity to her relationship with Mrs. Alving and also gives her character more depth.
Despite these significant changes, DaCosta stays true to the essence of Ibsen’s play. The play’s themes of deceit, morality, and the consequences of one’s actions are still at the forefront, and the end result is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged production. The bitter aftertaste that the audience is left with is the realization that these issues are still prevalent in today’s society.
DaCosta’s adaptation also does not shy away from the play’s more controversial themes, such as the taboo topic of incest. In fact, she embraces it and uses it to further explore the characters’ motivations and relationships. This bold move has been met with mixed reactions, but it adds another layer of complexity to the story and makes it more thought-provoking.
The production’s set design and costumes also deserve a mention. The minimalist set, designed by award-winning set designer David Korins, creates a sense of claustrophobia and adds to the oppressive atmosphere of the play. The costumes, designed by Toni-Leslie James, perfectly capture the time period and also add a touch of modernity to the characters.
Overall, DaCosta’s adaptation of “Ghosts” is a triumph. It stays true to the essence of Ibsen’s play while also making it relevant and relatable to today’s audience. The changes made add a new layer of complexity to the story, and the casting and performances are superb. However, the bitter aftertaste that lingers is a reminder that the issues presented in the play are still prevalent in our society, and it is up to us to address them.
In conclusion, Nia DaCosta’s adaptation of “Ghosts” may make significant changes to the original play, but it still captures the same bitter aftertaste. However, these changes add a new dimension to the story and make it more relevant and thought-provoking. The play is a must-see for theater enthusiasts and fans of Ibsen’s work, and it will leave audiences with a lot to ponder long after the curtains have closed.
