The world premiere of "My Master Builder," directed by Michael Grandage and penned by Lila Raicek, is making waves in London's West End, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Ewan McGregor, Elizabeth Debicki, and Kate Fleetwood. This modern reimagining of Henrik Ibsen's classic play, which explores themes of love, power, and ambition, has drawn attention not only for its reinterpretation of the narrative but also for its fresh take on complex relationships.
Set against the backdrop of a celebration for Henry Solness, a renowned architect played by McGregor, the play dives deep into the intricacies of personal and professional lives. The story unfolds during a party hosted by Henry's wife, Elena (Fleetwood), to commemorate the opening of his latest architectural achievement—a memorial built on the site of a burnt-out church. However, the atmosphere is charged with tension as Elena has invited Mathilde (Debicki), a former student of Henry's with whom he shares a complicated past.
Raicek's adaptation of Ibsen's work, while loosely based on the original, significantly alters the narrative, focusing on the dynamics between the three central characters. Fleetwood, who plays Elena, describes her character as a powerful force in the story, highlighting the shifting power dynamics between the women. “The writer has given a lot of oxygen to the power play between the two women, and I think that’s an interesting dynamic in the wake of #MeToo,” she explains, pointing to the relevance of these themes in contemporary society.
As the drama unfolds, the audience is drawn into the emotional landscape of the characters, each grappling with their past decisions and current desires. The play raises questions about age differences in relationships and the ethical implications of power dynamics between teachers and students. Mathilde, who has written a provocative novel titled "Master," reflects on her experiences with Henry, bringing to light the complexities of their former relationship.
“Depending on where you are in your life and your relationships, as with all good theatre, you’re going to respond quite viscerally to the human condition,” Fleetwood notes, suggesting that the play's themes resonate on multiple levels with its audience.
While the production has received praise for its ambition and thematic depth, some critiques have emerged regarding the execution of the script. Critics have pointed out that the dialogue can feel uneven, oscillating between classical and contemporary tones, and at times lacks the polish expected from a West End production. The performances, however, have been generally well-received, with McGregor's portrayal of Henry Solness being a focal point of interest.
McGregor, who has not graced the stage in 17 years, brings a unique energy to the role, though some have noted that his performance can come across as unrefined at times. "He stomps around with the elegance of an angry water buffalo and barks his words out," a review states, capturing the mixed reactions to his return to theatre. In contrast, Debicki's role as Mathilde allows her to display a range of emotions, though her character's development feels somewhat limited compared to that of Elena.
Raicek's background, which includes a stint writing for popular television shows like "Gossip Girl," has sparked curiosity about her transition to theatre. Her marriage to Douglas Raicek, who operates a family clothing business, has also drawn attention, as she navigates her new role as a playwright in a prestigious venue. Critics are watching closely to see how her unique perspective influences the future of her writing career.
Despite the mixed reviews, the production's exploration of contemporary issues through the lens of Ibsen's work is seen as a bold move. The play invites audiences to reflect on their own relationships and societal norms, making it a timely piece for today’s theatre scene.
My Master Builder continues its run at Wyndham’s Theatre until June 7, 2025, and tickets are available through the theatre's official website. As the production unfolds, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond to this modern interpretation of Ibsen's classic, but it has certainly sparked conversation and curiosity in the London theatre community.
In the midst of the excitement, Fleetwood reflects on her journey as an actress, recalling her early days with the Royal Shakespeare Company at the age of 12. She shares a humorous anecdote about a memorable encounter with Jeremy Irons during her youth, illustrating the vibrant and sometimes chaotic nature of life in the theatre.
As the curtain rises on My Master Builder, it becomes clear that this production is not merely a retelling of a classic play but a fresh examination of the themes that continue to resonate in our lives today. With its strong cast and thought-provoking narrative, it promises to engage audiences in a dialogue about love, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships.
