| A brisk and efficient “version” of Ibsen’s play. And Gold, whose direction is often variable, here finds and sustains the right tone throughout. In particular, using the audience as town hall members neatly realizes Ibsen's purpose. Strong, as the whistle blower Dr. Stockman, is quietly self possessed without seeming grandiose. It’s a nicely calibrated performance. Ibsen can be didactic, but he’s emotional, too. This production succeeds as both a reprimand—timely given recent events—and a lament. It has heat and heart. |
