Ghosts: A Slow Theatre Ritual for Mental Health & Collective Healing at The Little Studio at the Fine Arts Building

Ghosts: A Slow Theatre Ritual for Mental Health & Collective Healing

Presented by Theatre for Hope and Healing

Join Theatre for Hope and Healing for an immersive, community-focused staged reading of Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts, directed by psychotherapist Harry Barandes, LCSW. This unique production blends storytelling with mental health support, reimagining theatre as a healing ritual. The event will take place at The Little Studio in the historic Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, on Tuesday, March 19, and Wednesday, March 20, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. In-person tickets are available for $18 to $30, and livestream access is offered with tiered pricing and pay-what-you-can options.

About the Event:
This staged reading of Ghosts is designed as an intimate and transformative communal experience. The performance will be followed by a trauma-informed discussion, led by director Harry Barandes, LCSW, offering an opportunity to reflect on the play's themes and their relevance to modern experiences of mental health.

What to Expect:

• Pre-Performance: Grounding exercises and a Brave Space agreement to create a supportive environment for all participants.
• Performance: A dynamic staged reading performed by a talented ensemble, accompanied by a science-backed soundscape designed by Aaron Harris Woodstein, creating an immersive and emotionally supportive experience.
• Post-Performance: A trauma-informed discussion with the director and psychotherapist, facilitating meaningful dialogue on the play’s themes and their impact.

Cast:

• Shelby Marie Edwards as Regina Engstrand
• Eric S. Prahl as Jacob Engstrand
• Zach Twardowski as Pastor Manders
• Janine Ashley as Mrs. Helen Alving
• Cee Scallen as Oswald Alving

Creative Team:

• Co-Producers: Janine Ashley & Harry Barandes
• Director: Harry Barandes
• Tech Director & Sound Designer: Aaron Harris Woodstein

Content Advisory:
A detailed content note is available for those who wish to review potentially challenging themes in Ghosts prior to attending.

For tickets and more information, visit TheatreForHopeAndHealing.org or Eventbrite.