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Henrik Ibsen Headshot

Henrik Ibsen

Date of Death: May 23, 1906 (78)

Birth Place: Skien, NORWAY

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BIO

Henrik Ibsen was a Norwegian playwright who is often referred to as the father of modern drama. Born in 1828 in Skien, Norway, Ibsen showed an early interest in theater and began writing plays as a young man. His early works were largely ignored, but in the 1870s, he began to gain international recognition for his plays, which challenged the conventions of the day.
Ibsen's most famous work is probably "A Doll's House," which was first performed in 1879. The play caused a scandal at the time because of its portrayal of a woman who leaves her husband and children in order to find herself. The play was seen as a feminist manifesto and was hugely influential in the women's rights movement. Today, it is still considered a masterpiece of modern drama.
Ibsen's other major works include "Ghosts," "An Enemy of the People," and "Hedda Gabler." These plays are known for their realistic portrayal of human relationships and their exploration of themes such as morality, truth, and freedom. Ibsen's plays were often controversial and were sometimes banned, but they were also hugely popular and influential.
Ibsen's influence on modern drama cannot be overstated. His realistic portrayal of human relationships and his exploration of complex themes paved the way for modern playwrights such as Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. In addition, his use of symbolism and metaphor influenced the work of writers such as James Joyce and Samuel Beckett.
Ibsen continued to write plays throughout his life, but his later works are generally considered to be less successful than his earlier ones. He died in 1906, leaving behind a legacy that has had a profound impact on the world of theater and beyond.
Overall, Henrik Ibsen was a groundbreaking playwright who revolutionized the world of theater with his realistic portrayals of human relationships and his exploration of complex themes. His influence can still be seen in modern drama and literature, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and artists.

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Awards and Nominations


winner
Olivier Awards - 2006 - Best Revival

Henrik IbsenHedda Gabler

Olivier Awards - 1991 - Best Revival of a Play or Comedy

Henrik IbsenThe Wild Duck

Videos

News


THE WORLD TO COME World Premiere And More Set for Theater J 2025-2026 Season
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 22, 2025

Theater J has announced its 2025-2026 season, marking its 35th year of producing thought-provoking, dynamic, and impactful theater. The season includes a mix of new works and beloved classics, featuring stories that explore identity, resilience, and the intersections of Jewish life and the broader human experience.
The Inspired Acting Company to Produce Adaptation of A DOLL’S HOUSE
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 19, 2025

The Inspired Acting Company led by artistic director Jeff Thomakos has announced their upcoming production of the Tony-award winning revival of Henrik Ibsen’s A DOLL’S HOUSE.
Photos: Patricia Allison, Callum Scott Howells, and More in GHOSTS Rehearsals
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 19, 2025

Ghosts at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is currently in rehearsals! Get a first look at photos of the cast in rehearsals and see how to purchase tickets to the production.
Lincoln Center Theater Reveals Complete Executive Team
by Stephi Wild - Mar 19, 2025

Lincoln Center Theater's Board of Directors, incoming LCT Artistic Director Lear deBessonet and Executive Producer Bartlett Sher announced the completion of appointments for the new executive leadership team. Learn more here!
Photos: A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2 Premieres in Singapore
by Oliver Oliveros - Mar 18, 2025

Tony winner 'A Doll’s House, Part 2' (2017), written by Lucas Hnath, continues to play at the Victoria Theatre until March 23, 2025. Directed by Timothy Koh, the play, which picks up from one of Henrik Ibsen’s most popular 19th-century works, “A Doll’s House,” is produced by Pangdemonium Theatre Company Ltd.
THE RUINS World Premiere and More Set for Guthrie Theater 2025"2026 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 10, 2025

The Guthrie Theater has revealed nine productions as part of its 2025–2026 mainstage season, plus a world premiere. Learn more about the season and see full programming here!
GHOSTS Extended at Lincoln Center Theater Through Late April
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 5, 2025

Lincoln Center Theater has extended the run of Henrik Ibsen’s GHOSTS. The cast features Billy Crudup, Lily Rabe and more. Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets.
Watch: Billy Crudup Shares Onstage Panic Attack Experience During HARRY CLARKE Performance
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 4, 2025

On a recent visit to Live with Kelly and Mark, Billy Crudup recalled a time during one of the first performances of his one-man show Harry Clarke when he had a panic attack and forgot his lines onstage. Watch him talk about the experience here.
STC Sets 40th Season Featuring Wendell Pierce, Bill Irwin and More
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 3, 2025

Shakespeare Theatre Company has revealed the lineup of its upcoming 25/26 Season, celebrating the company’s 40th season exploring classic storytelling in Washington, D.C. See the lineup and learn more!
Review: A DOLL'S HOUSE, Golden Goose Theatre
by Amber-Rae Stobbs - Feb 27, 2025

Ibsen's classic tale of the issues surrounding a mother's responsibilities comes to South London
Cast & Creatives Set For GHOSTS at Lyric Hammersmith
by Stephi Wild - Feb 26, 2025

Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced cast and creatives for their upcoming production of Ghosts which runs at the venue in April and May. Learn more here!
FIVE MODELS IN RUINS, 1981 To Have Lincoln Center Theater/LCT3 World Premiere
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 26, 2025

Lincoln Center Theater/LCT3 has announced the world premiere of FIVE MODELS IN RUINS, 1981 a new play by Caitlin Saylor Stephens, directed by Morgan Green, will begin performances Saturday, April 19 through Sunday, June 1 at the Claire Tow Theater (150 West 65 Street).  Opening night is Monday, May 5.
Video: Jimmy Fallon Presents Billy Crudup with Sardi's Portrait on THE TONIGHT SHOW
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 25, 2025

On a recent visit to The Tonight Show, Billy Crudup talked about Ibsen's Ghosts and why the material is still timely hundreds of years after it was first written. Also on the show, Fallon surprised the performer with his long-awaited Sardi's portrait. Watch the video!
Review: PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at Great Lakes Theater
by Roy Berko - Feb 10, 2025

Mention author J. M. Barrie, and the immediate thought is Peter Pan.  Peter Pan, the tale of a boy who refused to grow up, which has become a cottage industry.   Dolls, movies, a musical play, coloring books, cartoons, Halloween costumes, a non-musical play, and books are all available.   There is even a psychological condition, “The Peter Pan Syndrome,” which puts the spotlight on men who refuse to assume responsibility for their boyish actions.
EastLine Theatre Will Bring AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE To The BACCA Arts Center In Lindenhurst
by Nicole Rosky - Feb 9, 2025

EastLine Theatre opens their 2025 season at the BACCA Arts Center in Lindenhurst with a new adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's classic An Enemy of the People by Paul DeFilippo.
Review: THE HOT WING KING at Dobama
by Roy Berko - Feb 9, 2025

What did our critic think of THE HOT WING KING at Dobama?
CONSTELLATIONS by Nick Payne Set for Rubicon Theatre Company Beginning This Month
by Blair Ingenthron - Feb 8, 2025

Rubicon Theatre will continue its 2024/2025 Dare to Dream Season with the Central Coast premiere of CONSTELLATIONS, a romantic drama by Award-winning playwright Nick Payne.
Photos: Day 10 of International Performance Of The BHARAT RANG MAHOTSAV 2025
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 7, 2025

The Tenth Day of the National School of Drama’s Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2025 showcased one international production, and four productions from across India. Film screenings, street plays, open stage performances, a folk band, and a talk show were also part of the day.
Lincoln Center Theater Names Nicole Kastrinos As Producer
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 5, 2025

Nicole Kastrinos will join Lincoln Center Theater in the new role of Producer, beginning Monday, March 17, 2025. Learn more about Kastrinos and about the position.
Lincoln Center Hosts Event on Arts Education in New York City Public Schools
by Stephi Wild - Feb 4, 2025

The Lincoln Center Theater Education Department will host a special convening for peer organizations who do arts work with multilingual learners in NYC schools. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has Henrik Ibsen written?

Henrik Ibsen has written 28 shows including Pillars of Society (Playwright), Ghosts (Playwright), John Gabriel Borkman (Playwright), When We Dead Awake (Playwright), Love's Comedy (Playwright), Brand (Playwright), Little Eyolf (Playwright), The Lady from the Sea (Playwright), Peer Gynt (Playwright), An Enemy of the People (Playwright), The Wild Duck (Playwright), The Master Builder (Playwright), The Vikings (Playwright), Rosmersholm (Playwright), A Doll's House (Playwright), Peer Gynt (Playwright), John Gabriel Borkman (Playwright), Little Eyolf (Playwright), Hedda Gabler (Playwright), Peer Gynt I (Playwright), Peer Gynt II (Playwright), An Enemy of the People (Playwright), Brand (Playwright), A Doll's House (Playwright), Hedda Gabler (Playwright), transFigures (Text), Hedda Gabler (Playwright), A Doll's House (Original Playwright).

What awards has Henrik Ibsen been nominated for?

Henrik Ibsen has been nominated for several awards. He was nominated for Best Revival at the Olivier Awards for his play "Hedda Gabler" and also for Best Revival of a Play or Comedy at the Olivier Awards for "The Wild Duck". These nominations recognize the outstanding productions of Ibsen's works in the theater industry.

What awards has Henrik Ibsen won?

Henrik Ibsen has won the Best Revival award at the Olivier Awards for his play "Hedda Gabler".

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