Alicia Vikander, a highly acclaimed Swedish actress, is set to make her return to the stage after a remarkable 17-year hiatus. Known for her captivating performances in films such as *Tomb Raider*, *Ex Machina*, and her Oscar-winning role in *The Danish Girl*, Vikander has been a prominent figure in the film industry. However, her theatrical appearances have been scarce, with her last stage performance dating back to her teenage years. This upcoming production marks not only her comeback but also her UK theatre debut, which has sparked considerable excitement among her numerous fans.
In an exclusive interview with BBC News, Vikander expressed a mix of emotions regarding her return to the theatrical scene. She described herself as “thrilled” about returning to the stage, yet acknowledged the daunting nature of the experience. “It’s my first time on stage as an adult,” she said, revealing the apprehensions that accompany stepping back into a world she has long envisioned being a part of. Vikander will star in a new West End production of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play, *The Lady from the Sea*, which is set to run at London’s Bridge Theatre for eight weeks starting on September 10.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Vikander revealed that she was deeply influenced by her mother, Maria Fahl, a stage actress herself. “I grew up being at the theatre a lot,” she said, noting that she viewed stage acting as a quintessential part of her journey to becoming an actress. Vikander elaborated that the Swedish entertainment industry tends to prioritize stage over screen performances, making her transition from stage to film a unique journey. “In Sweden, if you’re an actor, then really what you are is on stage,” she explained, underscoring how her personal aspirations have always gravitated towards live theatre.
The adaptation of *The Lady from the Sea* is helmed by Simon Stone, who is known for his innovative approach to classic plays. This production promises to modernize Ibsen’s work, making it more relatable to contemporary audiences—a vision shared by Vikander. She remarked, “It felt like a perfect match” when she learned that Stone was taking on this Ibsen classic, drawing connections to her Scandinavian heritage. Vikander’s character, Ellida, is a complex figure—a sea-loving daughter of a lighthouse keeper, who finds herself torn between her current husband, a Norwegian doctor, and a sailor from her past. This internal conflict serves as a poignant exploration of love and societal expectations.
Her upcoming role has significant thematic relevance, addressing timeless issues faced by women, many of which remain pertinent today. Vikander noted, “Women throughout history have been held back… it’s an extremely human thing to wonder where choices would have led you.” This reflection not only highlights the universal struggles of women but also connects back to the enduring relevance of classic literature in tackling such themes.
As she prepares for the performance, Vikander conveyed her eagerness and nervousness about the workshopping process with Stone, who will finalize the script. Although the specifics of the production’s setting remain unconfirmed, prior adaptations of *The Lady from the Sea* have seen varied interpretations, including one that relocated the narrative to the Caribbean in the 1950s. Vikander regards her return to theatre as a significant milestone, remarking, “It’s a daunting thing to do, obviously, but I’m really excited.”
Vikander’s long-awaited return to the stage not only signals a new chapter in her career but also serves as a revival of her artistic roots, giving audiences the opportunity to witness her talents in a live theatrical setting once more. As anticipation builds for the production, it’s evident that her journey from screen to stage will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.