THE HOUSE OF BERNARDA ALBA by Federico Garcia Lorca (in a new version by Terri Brabon)

​Contains strong language and depictions of physical assault and emotional trauma that may disturb some viewers.

Recommended for Ages 15+

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Historical Context

Federico Garcia Lorca wrote his play in 1926, drawing inspiration from the political environment of Fascist Spain, where he lived at the time. The period was marked by authoritarian rule and the suppression of personal freedoms, which deeply influenced Lorca’s creative work.  He would be murdered by the fascist government the same year. 

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Strong Language

Specific instances:​

• use of words "bloody" "bitch" "shit" "fuck/fucking" "piss" "slut"​​​​​

Loud Noises

Specific instances:​

• There is the recorded sound of thunder & lightning.​​

Strobe Lighting

Specific instances:

• The use of strobe lighting is utilised during the storm sequence.​

Mature Themes

Control and Power

• The central themes of the play revolve around the use of oppression and religious doctrine to exert power.  Lorca's work explores how these forces are employed to restrict freedoms and enforce conformity within society.

 References to and depictions of suicide.

• Central to the plot is one daughter's expression of freedom being only found through taking her own life.​

Family Ties and Coercive Dynamics.

• Family relationships are portrayed as a significant source of coercive control - reflecting the fascist dictatorship that Lorca was challenging when he wrote the original play.   ​

Religion is used as a tool of influence.

• Religious beliefs and practices often serve as a foundation for the actions and decisions of individuals within the play.  This influence extends beyond the act of personal faith - shaping behaviour and expectations in ways that reinforce authority and control as seen in many religious cults. 

​Sexual Repression.​

• ​A central theme in the story is Bernarda’s strict control over her daughters, particularly her insistence on maintaining their “purity”.  As a result of Bernarda’s oppressive control, her daughters’ sexual development is severely stunted.

Sexual Themes / References

• Characters discuss sex and relationships with men.

Depictions of alcohol use

• The play contains a scene where one of the daughters is drinking.

Abortion / Child Killing

• References to the murder of a newborn child.

Depictions of Violence

• This production contains choreographed violence.  No actors are harmed in the making or the performing of this production.