The Santa Barbara City College Theatre Group is producing Henrik Ibsen’s famous horror play “Ghosts.”
The historically controversial play opens on Oct. 22 in the Garvin Theatre.
“Ghosts” tells the story of a father whose sins continue to haunt his family after he has died. His wife, Mrs. Alving, and son, Osvald Alving are confronted with the past as well as terrors from the present while living in a strict and scrutinizing society. Major themes include sexuality and the hypocrisy of morality.
The play is still as interesting for modern audiences as it was for audiences in 1883 as it confronts issues like incest, venereal disease and infidelity.
Theatre Arts instructor Katie Laris, who directed last year’s “Baby with the Bathwater” and “Fortinbras,” is directing “Ghosts.” Laris said this play is fun to direct. “I think the most interesting thing about this play is when it was originally written it was the most controversial play at the time,” she said. “You’ll find what is surprising in it if you take him seriously.”
Allison Coutts-Jordan joins Walker Collin in leading the cast. Accompanying them are Brian Harwell, Elizabeth Knacke and Edward K. Romine.
The play previews at 8 p.m. on Oct. 20 and 21. Performances run from Oct. 22 through Nov. 6 in the Garvin Theatre. The performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices are $17 to $19 with discounts available. For more information and reservation call the Garvin Theatre Box Office at 965-5935.