Ibsen’s Ghosts: A Staged Reading & Talkback – A Communal Healing Ritual

In-person and livestreaming tickets are now available for Ghosts, a staged reading and mental health-centered talkback presented by Theatre for Hope and Healing! Join us for an evening of storytelling, reflection, and community healing as we bring Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts to life in our signature Slow Theatre style.

for those who prefer to join us from home!

Content Advisory: Ghosts contains themes that some may find challenging. Check out our if you prefer to review before attending.

Theatre for Hope and Healing's Ghosts is more than a staged reading—it’s a communal healing ritual, where theatre and well-being support intertwine to explore themes like generational trauma, narrative agency, and resilience.

Before the reading, we’ll set the stage with grounding exercises and a Brave Space agreement, ensuring a supported and intentional container for shared experience. Throughout the evening, Sound Designer Aaron Harris Woodstein's soundscape provides science-backed support for both the story and our nervous systems. After the reading, director and psychotherapist Harry Barandes, LCSW, will lead a trauma-informed discussion, guiding us through a participatory talkback that connects the characters’ timeless struggles to our own lived experiences today.

As we close, we will lead a simple ritual to help you carry these reflections forward and also provide information about mental health resources for ongoing support.

This isn’t just theatre; it’s an invitation to witness, engage, and heal—together.

• A Communal Healing Ritual – Blends theatre, reflection, and discussion for shared transformation.
• Interactive & Immersive – Audience members participate in grounding exercises, talkback discussions, and a closing ritual.
• Theatre with Mental Health at Its Core – Resources provided to continue personal and collective healing.
• Open to All – No prior experience with theatre or well-being practices needed—just an open heart.

Your attendance at and participation in this event does not constitute a therapeutic relationship and the topics discussed are for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or as a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If you feel you are in need of therapy, you should formally engage the services of a mental health professional. Although Harry Barandes is a licensed clinical social worker, he is not offering therapy at this event, nor is he responsible for treating any mental health issues you might have.

If you secured a ticket through our crowdfunding campaign at the Blooming Sponsors level or higher, do not purchase another ticket unless you’re getting one for a friend! Instead, email with your name and the date you’d like to attend.

• Location: The Little Studio on the seventh floor of the Fine Arts Building, an intimate and accessible venue located at 410 S Michigan Avenue across from Grant Park in Chicago. The space is wheelchair accessible via elevator. Note that the elevator operator leaves at 10:00 PM.
• Accessibility: The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. If you need assistance or have any specific accessibility requirements, please contact us ahead of time at , and we will do all we can to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.
• Parking: Check out the for information regarding parking and public transit.
• Arrival: We recommend arriving at least 20 minutes before the event starts to settle in and complete any necessary registration or check-in. Doors will open at 6:15 PM.
• Tickets: Prices range from $18 to $30. We still have volunteer opportunities available, which include the opportuntity to participate in this event free of charge. Limited capacity, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
• What to Bring: We recommend dressing comfortably for this event. Feel free to bring a notebook or journal if you wish to take notes during the experience.

Seating is limited, so grab your spot early!

• Help us spread the word! Even if you can’t make it, sharing this event supports our mission of making theatre a space for connection and healing.
• Questions? Email us at . We are happy to help!

We can’t wait to see you there! Thank you for supporting Theatre for Hope and Healing as we launch our Chicago presence with this special event.

Host or Publisher Theatre for Hope and Healing