BWW Reviews: St. Louis Actors' Studio Presents A DOLL'S HOUSE

Though elements of its plot has been pilfered by countless writers and filmmakers over the years, Henrik Ibsen's classic, A Doll's House, still manages to pack a punch today. The tale of a woman in a seemingly idyllic marriage who suddenly finds herself being extorted because of a risky decision she made in order to save her husband's life has been reworked into countless thrillers and Lifetime originals. It may well be the prototype of feminists plays, empowering its heroine with a sense of true purpose as she comes to grips with the reality that her "perfect" marriage isn't all it's cracked up to be. The St. Louis Actors' Studio is presenting a tautly acted production of Ibsen's most famous, and controversial work, and it's must-see viewing.

The plot centers around Nora Helmer and her evolving relationship with her husband Torvald. It begins during Christmastime in the late 1800's, with Torvald having just changed professions, leaving behind his law practice for a more lucrative and respected position at a bank. Though this would seem to be a peak time for the pair, there's something brewing beneath the surface. It seems that when Torvald was ill Nora borrowed money from a disgraced lawyer known as Krogstad. She's been diligently making her monthly payments, but Krogstad works under Torvald at the bank, and his sudden dismissal brings forth a threat of blackmail.

Julie Layton is impressive as Nora, completely inhabiting this character, and making you understand her motivations clearly. It's a bravura performance, with nearly every nuance she brings to the part worthy of note. Layton is nicely matched with her husband, R. Travis Estes, who makes the stuffy and staid Torvald an object of pity in a way. He is, after all, completely oblivious to his own shortcomings, and clearly shocked by the turn of events that follows; he's just following the norms of their time, however misguided they may seem in retrospect.

The supporting cast is also exceptional and includes: Greg Johnston, who brings an air of polite menace to his role as Krogstad; Missy Miller as Nora's old friend Christine, who arrives looking for work at the most opportune time; Chad Morris as the genial and slowly deteriorating Dr. Rank; Sally Eaton as the maid; and Aliyah Studt and Cam Vennard as the Helmer's children.

Director Milt Zoth does fine work keeping the actors and action focused. There's a palpable tension in the air as the story progresses that works to maintains audience interest until the final jolt (or slam, as the case may be). Patrick Huber's scenic design conjures up the era in style, and the curved billows of the red velvet ceiling adds a whimsical Victorian flavor. Hubert's lighting is also effective. Teresa Dogget's costumes lend an authentic feel to the proceedings.

The St. Louis Actors' Studio's compelling and dramatic production of A Doll's House continues through April 25, 2010 at the Gaslight Theatre.

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