In An Enemy of The People, Dr. Stockmann exposes pollution that is fouling the waters of a spa, threatening the health of its guests. Instead of being thanked, he is taunted and denounced as a lunatic, an “Enemy of the People” by his fellow townspeople, who want to sweep the problem under the rug. This is the story of a man who will sacrifice all – his standing, his reputation, his wealth, and the security of his family and person – in order for the truth to prevail. Miller’s adaptation, written during the witch hunts of the McCarthy Era, intensifies Ibsen’s principles. As the lead character, Dr. Stockmann, declares: “But remember now, everybody, you are fighting for the truth and that is why you’re alone. And that makes you strong.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Ibsen wrote this play in response to the public outcry against his play Ghosts, which was considered scandalous for the time. Ghosts had challenged the hypocrisy of Victorian morality and was deemed indecent for its veiled references to syphilis. The play was made into a movie in 1977. The lead character of Dr. Thomas Stockmann was played by Steve McQueen.

BEHIND THE SCENES

This play will be our first initiative in examining how we produce theatre from an environmental perspective. We hope to evolve Canadian theatre practice in looking for new means and materials that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable.