More Bergman Stage Adaptations In The Works?

Just days after reviews began coming in from a stage adaptation of Ingmar Bergman’s Through A Glass Darkly, it looks as though more stage adaptations of the legendary auteurs work may be on the horizon.

According to a feature penned by Variety, the Bergman estate is slowly becoming more open to stage adaptations, especially after the aforementioned Through A Glass Darkly. The Bergman Foundation has only sanctioned three films for stage adaptations; The Devil’s Eye, The Seventh Seal, and Through A Glass Darkly, within the English speaking world.

Scenes From A Marriage has been done in Russia, which while not being sanctioned for stage performance by the Bergman estate, has since become the most popular adaptation of Bergman’s, along with teleplays of Saraband, From The Life Of The Marionettes and After The Rehearsal. Also quite popular are Persona, Autumn Sonata and Winter Light, all of which haven’t been sanctioned by the foundation.

However, the outlet is reporting that this may not be the case for much longer.

This interest in the filmmaker on stage speaks on two levels. First, the man has become one of the most reviled filmmakers ever to work in the world of film. Second, his style screams to be put to the stage. Bergman had a very singular style, but one that was very theatrical and very friendly to the stage. Personally, I hope like hell these become popular, because I would love to see some of today’s most talented stage actors take on such introspective and theatrical material.

Luckily, no one will get the chance to re film his material, as that is one stipulation that Bergman was very straightforward with, and the estate sees no reason to go against the late legend’s wishes.

Source: Variety