Milligan University will present a production of “A Doll’s House” at the McGlothlin-Street Theatre in the Gregory Center from February 19-22, 2024. The play, a classic work by Henrik Ibsen, adapted by Frank McGuinness, will feature showtimes at 7 p.m. from February 19 to 21 and a matinee at 2 p.m. on February 22. Tickets are priced at $13.50 and can be purchased through Milligan’s official ticketing site.
Frances Saxton, assistant professor of theatre and artistic director at Milligan, expressed her enthusiasm for the production, noting its complexity for young actors. “This play has been one of the most challenging plays thus far at Milligan for young actors,” she stated. She praised the cast for their positivity and talent, encouraging the community to support the performers.
The narrative of “A Doll’s House” revolves around the marriage of Nora, a young housewife, and her husband, Torvald. When Nora makes a significant decision to save Torvald from financial ruin, their relationship is put to the test, raising profound questions about identity and self-understanding. Saxton chose this play for its psychological realism and alignment with Milligan’s core values of thoughtful engagement, integrity, and community.
Character Insights and Cast Details
The cast features a range of talented students, including senior Payton Chambers as Mrs. Linde, freshman Micah Graffius as Krogstad, junior Jocely Kain as Nora, and junior Isaac Maples as Helmer, among others. Kain, a junior majoring in theatre arts and psychology, has participated in every theatre production at Milligan during her studies. As the protagonist Nora, she faces an emotional journey that she describes as a compelling challenge.
“My favorite aspect of performing as Nora is that she is very outspoken,” Kain shared. “I get to explore so many different nuances in her tone, body language, and expressions.” Kain believes that audiences will find relatable themes in Nora’s experiences, making it a significant performance for contemporary viewers.
The play does tackle mature themes, which may not be suitable for younger audiences. For those interested in the arts, Milligan’s theatre program promises a rich exploration of both classic and modern narratives. For more information about the theatre program and upcoming performances, visit milligan.edu/theatre.
