Four Itchy Feet

November 13, 2025. Washington, DC.

We traveled into the capital today, met our son and daughter-in-law, and together we experienced a wonderful delivery of the play The Wild Duck. The performance was hosted by the Shakespeare Theatre Company (STC) in Washington, D.C. STC is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier classical theatre companies, known for its artistic excellence and innovative, accessible approach to both Shakespeare and other classic playwrights.

This particular production was staged at the Michael R. Klein Theatre, STC’s more intimate venue, which seats 451 patrons and offers a remarkably close and personal viewing experience.

The Wild Duck, a powerful and complex play from 1884, is by the celebrated Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, often called the “father of modern drama.” It is considered one of his masterpieces and a pivotal work in modern realism. The play lived up to its reputation, and the STC delivered the performance in a powerful way. The sets and costumes were carefully thought out, but the most impressive and moving aspect was the delivery by the actors. A little research after the performance informed us that they are indeed highly acclaimed actors who have performed on Broadway and many other venues.

The play itself is one that makes you reflect on the concept of “living in truth,” asking whether there should be absolutely no secrets in your life for anyone, even your spouse. The tragic ending lives up to the Tragicomedy genre and leaves the audience wondering on the concept of “life-lies”—the necessary illusions people create to survive emotionally. It was a wonderful experience, one that is only available for a few days at the STC, but if you have an opportunity to attend the play elsewhere, we strongly advise it.