Concept Statement

Concept Statement:

"I will not answer such a question. I only know that Eilert Løvborg had the courage to live life on his own terms. And this is the result! It has a kind of beauty. That he had the strength and the will to tear himself away from the banquet of life—so early" - Hedda

I turned to paintings. In the world of Hedda Gabbler, the story revolves around the beautiful and intelligent Hedda Tesman. The characters and even lighting literally react to her presence. With a gesture she affects the world around her, either through her actions or her orders. The emotional arc of the story is greatly reflected in the chosen time. To open the show it is early in the morning, we are presented to a bright scene, open and made aware of Hedda and her station in life. The misfortune she has fallen into and her unenthusiastic feelings on the subject. Foremost for the audience her intimidating intelligence and beauty on display.  

Next, the second act takes place in the late afternoon. This moment presents itself with the reunion of Hedda and her past lover, Lovborg. A romantic and warm scene that should have been an opportunity for reminiscence progressively gets darker as we see Hedda push Lovborg off the wagon. A glimpse into the power Hedda holds over Lovborg. 

Next, The third act is at night, but it isn’t dark, The dark is reserved for another feeling. Here we lie in expectation for the men who have been our all night. An insidious feeling fills the air as we see gears turning in Hedda’s head. Sly and cunning until at the very end of the act she burns the manuscript murdering the child of Elvstead and Lovberg.

And Finally, The last act is the only place in the text that the world is described as “Dark”. In this time of mourning, even the atmosphere has drawn close. Allowing for the most intimate conversations in the entire show. Revelations are not made lightly and you can gradually feel the world closing in on Hedda. Up until the very last moment.