Hedda Tesman at The Lowry

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

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Hedda Tesman

Lowry, Salford
4-19 October 2019

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Hedda Tesman at The Lowry.
Image courtesy of Johan Persson.
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Inspired by the characters of Ibsen’s classic play, Chichester Festival Theatre, Headlong and The Lowry have joined forces to create a sensational and stylish new twist in the tale. Hedda Tesman is a tense thriller offering a fresh and feminist perspective on Henrik Ibsen’s infamous text.

This co-production sees Hedda as a modern-day woman who finds herself replaying the history written for her all over again. After three decades of playing wife, Hedda is resentful and bored. When her estranged daughter, Thea, suddenly reappears asking for help, Hedda senses that history is beginning to repeat itself, and starts on a path of destruction.

A fresh and feminist perspective on Henrik Ibsen’s infamous text.

Hedda Tesman boasts an all-star cast, including Hollywood film-star Jonathan Hyde (‘The Mummy’, ‘Titanic’, ‘Jumanji’), TV’s Anthony Calf (‘New Tricks’); we can’t wait to see Haydn Gwynne take on the title role, in what promises to be a ‘tour de force’ performance.

Natalie Simpson (Thea Tesman) in HEDDA TESMAN, a CFT, Headlong, Lowry co-production Photo Johan Persson
Natalie Simpson as Thea. Credit: Johan Persson

Written by Cordelia Lynn, Hedda Tesman is not an adaptation or sequel to Ibsen’s original play, Hedda Gabler – it is a brand new work. And perhaps most pleasingly, Hessa Tesman can be appreciated by those who are not familiar with the original play.

This vital new exploration has been forged by a triple threat of female creatives.

We’re most excited that this vital new exploration has been forged by a triple threat of female creatives: writer, director and lead performer. Examining motifs around motherhood, power and sabotage, Holly Race Roughan directs this bold and relevant piece of theatre. Most appealingly, Lynn has reimagined Ibsen’s young and volatile Hedda, as a woman in her 50s – an age group so often under-represented on stage.

Hedda is one of theatre’s most unforgettable characters – her actions and desires have captivated audiences for over a century – this production looks set to only deepen our fascination.

What's on at Lowry

Where to go near Hedda Tesman at The Lowry

Manchester
Gallery
Irwell Sculpture Trail

The 33-mile trail, which follows the River Irwell from Salford Quays all the way to Bacup in Pennine Lancashire, has been around for over a decade, but it’s recently been restored and expanded.

Manchester
Shopping Centre
Lowry Outlet Mall

The Lowry Outlet Mall in The Quays district of Manchester sits opposite both The Lowry and MediaCityUK, Europe’s largest media hub and the home of BBC North.

Manchester
Bar or Pub
Central Bay

Central Bay is a new waterfront dining and drinking destination at Quayside MediaCity, opening summer 2023.

MediaCityUK
Café or Coffee Shop
Blanconero

High-level Italian food in Salford Quays, with no less than seven different lasagnas to choose from.

The Quays
Restaurant
The Alchemist Mediacity

The latest offering from the UK-conquering Alchemist has an energetic vibe similar to others in this highly-regarded chain of restaurants.

Salford
Uswim
at Salford Quays

Jump into waters of dock 9 at Salford Quays with Uswim, they bring the benefits and freedom of open water swimming to the convenience of a central location.

Manchester
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11 Central

11 Central is a new bar and microbrewery launched by local brewing legends SEVEN BRO7HERS BREWING CO at the Central Bay site in Salford.

Ice Rink
Manchester
MCUK Ice Rink
at Media City

Embrace that most Christmassy of activities and get your skates on outside of the chaotic city centre this winter. The Ice Rink at Media City will be serving festive fun till January 5th.

Manchester
Shop
Booths Media City

The Booths branch at Media City, Salford Quays is much appreciated by TV, radio and media executives who work in the area.

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