Cate Blanchett to Star in Hedda Gabler at BAM in 2006

The Sydney Theatre Company production of Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler, starring Oscar-nominated actress Cate Blanchett, is coming to New York. The show will open at the Brooklyn Academy of Music BAM on March 1, 2006 for a four-week engagement of 28 performances at the 875-seat Harvey Theatre.

Blanchett starred in the show in Sydney, Australia from July 22, 2004 through September 26, 2004. Variety's Michaela Boland wrote of the production: "Cate Blanchett's return to the Sydney Theatre Company, the result of a concerted campaign by topper Robyn Nevin, is a triumph on every level. Months after giving birth to her second child, Blanchett appears strong, energized and more assured than ever. Her embodiment of the difficult title role is impeccable. Her coltish striding across the stage, her shallow veneer of calm over deep-seated nervous tension and sarcastic asides, are executed with perfect pitch and tone."

This production, directed by STC Artistic Director Robyn Nevin, uses an adaptation of Hedda Gabler by Andrew Upton, Blanchett's husband. The BAM mounting will feature the entire original Sydney company, which, in addition to Blanchett, included Annie Byron, Justine Clarke, Julie Hamilton, Hugo Weaving, Anthony Weigh and Aden Young.