Henrik Ibsen's final dramatic work, 'When We Dead Awaken', will run at the Unity Theatre in Liverpool.
Unity Theatre Liverpool with Riksteatern and Vasterbottensteatern from Sweden present an international co-production of 'When We Dead Awaken', the final dramatic work by Henrik Ibsen in a collaboration for 2008.
The story follows Arnold Rubek and his beautiful young wife Maja. Arnold is an aging sculptor who has lost all interest in the world around him. In spite of his wealth, his fame, and the attentions of his wife, he can find no joy in his existence. Suddenly he is jolted out of his stupor by an unexpected reunion with Irene, a model who once posed for him and whom he idolised. Maja meanwhile finds herself drawn to Ulfheim, a brutal hunter who contrasts sharply with her cold, withdrawn husband. They journey into the mountains, hoping the raw and harsh environment will bring some kind of reconciliation.
A cast and production team of English and Swedish artists have been working together under the direction of Unity Theatre patron Josette Bushell-Mingo. Josette has worked as a director and actor with the Royal National Theatre, RSC, Manchester Royal Exchange, and Young Vic and created the role of Rafiki in the UK premier of the Lion King. Directing 'When We Dead Awaken' as an international project is the fulfilment of an ambition for Bushell-Mingo. Her flare for a strikingly visual, total theatre style provides the opportunity to approach this uncompromising, honest and rarely performed play as a new text.
Following its UK premier at unity theatre in Liverpool 'When We Dead Awaken' will tour Sweden.
'When We Dead Awaken'
by Henrik Ibsen, translated by Michael Meyer.
23 October- 1November at 8pm
Unity Theatre, Liverpool
1 Hope Place, L1 9BG
Tickets available by telephone 01517094988, or online, click here.
Ibsen's final dramatic play will run in Liverpool this autumn.