Director’s Blog: Casting GHOSTS
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008I spent a good part of the summer worrying about casting Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts. It features one of the greatest roles written for a woman, Mrs. Helen Alving. By “greatest” I mean challenging, complex, on stage almost the entire show and responsible for the play’s success. Who would be capable, available and interested in acting this role - or any of the others in the play for that matter - for a brand new theatre company that offers minuscule monetary compensation and a short track record of success?
Not knowing what else I could do, I decided to place my faith in God, the Universe or perhaps Dionysus himself to take care of that which was beyond my control. I focused on my part: reading the script, researching Ibsen, and sending emails to every actor I know to invite them to audition. I am grateful to say that tactic worked. I now have a dream cast in whom I have complete confidence to bring Ghosts to life.
The cast of Raconteur Theatre’s production of Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts translated by Lanford Wilson is:
- Regina: Sarah Willis
- Engstrand: Richard Wilson
- Mrs. Helen Alving: Carolyn Harding
- Reverend Manders:Stephen Woosley
- Oswald: Brennan Hunter
