Oct. 3, 2012

"Hedda Gabler" Set For Hartke Theatre

"Hedda Gabler," the first fall production for Catholic University's Department of Drama, is set for Oct. 11 to Oct. 14 at the Hartke Theatre, 3801 Harewood Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. This is the first performance in the 75th anniversary celebration season of the University's drama department.

Written by Henrik Ibsen and adapted by Michael Meyer, the play was considered scandalous and subversive in its day. Ibsen's classic examines the life and psyche of an ambitious and talented woman trapped in a loveless marriage by obligation and society who yearns to break free of her dull existence as a traditional housewife in 1890s Norway.

One of modern literature's most infamous protagonists, Hedda Gabler lies, cheats, and steals to escape her own boredom, heedless of the consequences to those around her, until the bitter end.

Produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., the play is directed by Eleanor Holdridge, head of the M.F.A. Directing program.

The cast includes Amy Horan as Hedda Gabler, Brandon McMahon as George Tessman, Samantha Smedley as Miss Tesman, and Chris Daileader as Judge Brack. Other roles include Nina Marti as Thea Elvsted, Patrick Flannery as Eilert Loevborg, Virginia Houley as Bertha, and Tara Costello as the understudy.

Performance dates and times are Oct. 11, 12, and 13 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 13 and 14 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults; $10 CUA alumni, faculty, and staff; $8 senior citizens; $5 students and children. Tickets may be purchased by calling 202-319-4000, online at http://drama.cua.edu , or email cua-drama@cua.edu .