Noras

Introduction

• Branny Shanahan is the joint artistic director at the Royal Exchange and director of the play "Nora, a Doll's House."

• The play is written by Steph Smith, who adapts Ibsen's "A Doll's House" by creating three distinct versions of the character Nora.

The Three Nors

• Nora in 1918: End of World War I; first year some women gained the right to vote.

• Nora in 1968: Represents the second wave of feminism; introduction of credit cards, contraception, and the decriminalization of homosexuality.

• Nora in 2018: Set during the Me Too movement, a time of renewed struggle for women's rights and workplace equality.

Central Themes

• The play questions what, if anything, has changed for women over the years.

• It explores a powerful narrative of survival and transformation rather than tragedy.

Director's Perspective

• First reaction to the script: Charged, excited by the potential of the three women’s journeys.

• Describes the script as loyal to the original yet incredibly contemporary, energetic, and engaging.

• Portrays the work as a domestic thriller that is both action-driven and poetic.

Accessibility and Audience Experience

• Aims to present the play as a new piece, accessible to both those familiar and unfamiliar with Ibsen's original work.

• Encourages a fresh experience for all audiences, regardless of their prior knowledge or feelings towards the original play.

Empowerment and Historical Context

• Emphasizes the narrative as a "battle cry" for living authentically.

• Highlights Manchester's rich history in activism and the suffragette movement, framing the play within this proud historical context.