The Father

The Father

Theatre for a New Audience

May 29, 2016

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Theatre for a New Audience is presently running Ibsen’s A Doll’s House and Strindberg’s The Father in rep at their downtown Brooklyn theatre.  The intention of this project is to illustrate these two classic playwrights’ opposing points of view over the battle of the sexes.  Under the bold and daring direction of Associate Artistic Director Arin Arbus, these two productions share the same superb cast.  The production of The Father is riveting.  Ms. Arbus strongly dramatizes Strindberg’s account of the manipulative and domineering role a woman can play in a marriage, and the overbearing control she can have over the family patriarch.

John Douglas Thompson
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

The Captain (played by John Douglas Thompson) is fighting with his wife, Laura (played by Maggie Lacey), over what is best for their daughter, Bertha (played by Kimber Monroe).  When Laura, in a desperate attempt to win, puts into question Bertha’s paternity and her husband’s sanity, the outcome is devastating.

John Douglas Thompson delivers a stellar performance in the title role.  His character possesses strengths that make him a leader, and insecurities that make him vulnerable.  He blends these juxtaposed traits in a naturalistic way that allows the character to be identifiable and genuine.  Maggie Lacy is invincible as his wife, Laura.  She is determined and, at times, cruel, yet in the end reveals the honest motivations of her character, which makes her susceptible and empathetic.  Kimba Monroe is extraordinary as their daughter, Bertha.  She is a skilled, young actress with depth and honesty that seizes attention each moment she is on stage.  Other outstanding performances are Laurie Kennedy as Margaret, Nigel Gore as Doctor Ostermark, and Jesse J. Perez as the Pastor.

Maggie Lacey & John Douglas Thompson
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Theatre for a New Audience raises the bar for greatness with every production.  Their standards are high.  Their directors are brilliant.  Their casting is impeccable.  A Doll’s House and The Father run in rep through June 12.  Don’t miss out on this theatrical event. 

I have only seen “The Father,” and welcome comments from anyone who has seen this director’s interpretation of “A Doll’s House.”

Domenick Danza