Witch Hunt 2020 Theatrical Company is a theatrical group that emerged in 2020, seeking to shed light on the history and consequences of witch hunts throughout the centuries. The company aims to educate and entertain audiences through their performances, raising awareness about the tragic events of witch trials and the damaging effects of fear and prejudice. **Their main goal is to prevent the recurrence of such witch hunts in society.** Witch hunts have plagued various societies across the globe for centuries, resulting in the persecution and execution of countless innocent individuals, primarily women. The 2020 theatrical company uses their productions to explore the causes and consequences of these events, portraying the stories of both the accused and the accusers. Through their performances, Witch Hunt 2020 Theatrical Company seeks to challenge societal assumptions and prejudices that can lead to the marginalization and persecution of certain groups.
BOTTOM LINE: Witch Hunt wasn’t the worst thing I’ve seen and even has a few solid things going for it, but man, I wish I got the movie from the trailer instead. I get the positive message and believe Elle Callahan’s heart is in the right place, but I’m just too old and cynical for such a naive and sappy story. But I can also admit that this tale isn’t for me. I’m just not the target audience. The lite and cute magic, paired with an adolescent finding herself, may resonate with young teens. And you know what? Good. If you got a daughter, this might be a good family movie that dips its toe into the supernatural but never gets intense or outright creepy. Mitchell and Adlon are great and do a lot of heavy lifting, keeping this from dropping even lower. Who knows, you may find the heart in what’s being said. For me, though, Witch Hunt ultimately underdelivers on its premise.
With witch hunters checking residences, a family of witch smugglers who shepherd women across the border to safety finds themselves in danger after offering shelter for a group of witches. I get the positive message and believe Elle Callahan s heart is in the right place, but I m just too old and cynical for such a naive and sappy story.
Through their performances, Witch Hunt 2020 Theatrical Company seeks to challenge societal assumptions and prejudices that can lead to the marginalization and persecution of certain groups. They utilize powerful storytelling, intricate costumes, and captivating set designs to transport audiences back in time and provide them with a deeper understanding of the atrocities committed during witch hunts. Furthermore, the company believes in the power of education and outreach.
Ingrid Bolsø Berdal is no stranger to drama. The Trøndelag-born actress appeared in the film Chernobyl Diaries (2012) and the hit dystopian series Westworld. However, her performance as law firm CFO Ida Waage in Witch Hunt, the new series on Walter Presents, sparked real-life drama when it provoked a public debate in Norway about corporate corruption.
Witch Hunt centres on shady practices at a large Norwegian law firm. Bolsø Berdal’s character discovers that the company will stop at nothing to protect its image. It’s an edgy performance, aided by a dynamic cast and solid story-telling from Rajendram Eliassen and Anna Bache-Wiig, the writers behind 2018’s heart-wrenching film Utøya: July 22.
Witch Hunt is coming to our screens in the UK and will be available on Walter Presents from Friday 12 November 2021. Ahead of its arrival, Bolsø Berdal spoke to us about her involvement in the show, her approach to acting and taking on more light-hearted projects in the future.
Ingrid Bolsø Berdal in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
What made you want to get involved with Witch Hunt?
It was definitely the script. I was fortunate to read a few of the first episodes quite early on and had a great chat with the show’s creators. They, passionately, explained what they were trying to do with the show and what they wanted to focus on with the narrative. It was just the biggest gift I think I’ve been given, to be trusted with this task. And to have a script which I found very intelligent, thrilling, and full of turning points.
In 2020 you won a Best Actress in the Gullruten (Golden Screen) awards for your performance in Witch Hunt. Did that change things for you?
That’s a good question, actually. When it came out, it sparked quite a debate. Because it tackles corruption within both oil companies and, well, I shouldn’t spoil it too much, but it trickles up through certain positions, politically as well. You know: “Does this happen in the safe, trustworthy, social democracy that is Norway?”. We are perceived as being so kind, and we trust each other. So, does this really take place? We got lots of feedback from people who said, “Well, yeah, stuff like this is happening”. People got provoked by it and I don’t know if it changed anything, per se, but for a certain amount of time it gave people who have experienced these powerplays a position to say, “What she’s experiencing there, that’s what I experienced myself.”
Ingrid Bolsø Berdal in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
Since the show was released in Norway, the pandemic has happened, which has forced Norwegians to debate traumatic incidences. They force people to communicate. There have been some really good debates when it comes to how we’ve handled things and how we should be handling it going forward: should we get the third dose in Norway before the rest of the world gets their first one, for example. There are some ethical questions that are pushing themselves into the frame. I think it’s important that we really breathe deeply into these questions, and not blame each other too much. Does it change us in some sense? I hope for the better.
How did you get into character for the role of Ida?
Well, I think that this was a type of character that is closer to me than some I’ve done. Not that I would have done necessarily the same things that Ida does, nor would I have the same integrity or honesty at all times. But here, for example, I could play with my own dialect. I have a very broad Norwegian accent. It was also a very understandable topic. I got how Ida was thinking and acting. And the way it was written just felt right. Sometimes, when you get a script, you feel like you have to go through each scene the day before, so it can be like two jobs, but here everything felt so fluid. The co-actors did the work for me, basically. The way they were putting the pressure on Ida, I was just acting towards their powerplay. It shows how acting, to me at least, is a group effort.
Axel Bøyum in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
What was your favourite part of filming Witch Hunt?
Collaborating with the series “conceptual director”, Eva Sørhaug. Because sometimes I think that I can be a bit ‘correct’ with my acting. I can analyse it beforehand. As an actor, you shouldn’t picture how you’re supposed to act something, because on the day, you never know how your co-actors will be. It’s like jazz. You have to be in the moment. Sometimes I can get a bit fixed about certain things. To be arrested, so to speak, by a director who says: “It looks and feels good, but you’re not present. You’re not here”. I learnt so much from that.
You’ve done a mixture of TV, stage, singing and film work. Which is your favourite?
Well, I have a love / hate relationship with the theatre, although hate seems like too strong of a word. Perhaps it’s better to say that at times I find the theatre problematic for me. When it works, it’s the most magical place. To be on stage, the lights go out and there’s an audience full of people who are concentrating – that’s so precious and magical. But when it’s not working or I’m not feeling inspired, I find it very challenging. I really respect my colleagues that do stage shows every night. To work on a play in the daytime, then another one in the evening. In between you’re going home, maybe you’re eating dinner or picking up your children. It’s a big task. Lately, I’ve done film and TV.
Ingrid Bolsø Berdal in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
What is your next acting project?
A feature film called Everybody Hates Johan (Alle hater Johan), which comes out next year. We filmed it a year ago on an island in the middle of Norway. It’s a drama comedy directed by Hallvar Witzø. There’s also a Netflix film called Blasted, which is a sci-fi comedy about an alien attack on Norwegian soil! It was such fun to embark on. It’s a bit strange that I haven’t done a bit more comedy. I don’t know if I’m particularly good at it, but I really enjoy doing it! I enjoy absurdity and absurd situations. It’s great to have light shooting days and not have to go into the darkness of the soul every time.
What Norwegian musical recommendations do you have for our readers?
If they are into jazz, one of my favourite bands is Jaga Jazzist. And then if they want something more avant-garde or alternative, there’s a guitarist called Stian Westerhus. And then you have Susanne Sundfør. She’s more pop, but still very avant-garde.
Ingrid Bolsø Berdal in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
How about literature?
I’m reading Tante Ulrikkes Vei (Aunt Ullricha’s Street) by Zeshan Shakar. It’s a story about a family of second-generation immigrants living on the outskirts of Oslo. You get into the heads of younger people living in the city today, how they look upon their own culture and how they see themselves not reflected by Norwegian culture. It was really interesting for me to read. It was very well received when it was published in Norway and gives such a good insight into environments that might otherwise feel hidden.
Witch Hunt is available on Walter Presents via All 4 from 12 November
Click here to watch the Q&A with Ingrid Bolsø Berdal and others from the series filmed for the RTS this October.
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Top photo: Ingrid Bolsø Berdal in Witch Hunt (Photo: Walter Presents)
5 November 2021 / Dan Cromb is a freelance journalist and photographer who enjoys all things Nordic. When he's not also writing for Ja Ja Ja Music, he can be found on the ward looking after small humans. Categories
They not only perform on stage but also offer workshops, discussions, and educational materials to schools and communities. **By engaging with the public and promoting open dialogue, they strive to create a society that is more tolerant and inclusive.** While their productions primarily focus on historical witch hunts, Witch Hunt 2020 Theatrical Company also strives to draw parallels to contemporary issues. They illuminate the dangers of scapegoating, prejudice, and misinformation in our modern world, urging audiences to critically evaluate societal narratives and challenge oppressive systems. In summary, Witch Hunt 2020 Theatrical Company is a dedicated group of performers aiming to shed light on the history and consequences of witch hunts. Through their powerful performances and educational outreach, they aim to create awareness, challenge assumptions, and prevent the recurrence of such devastating events. **Their ultimate goal is to foster a society that is more accepting and compassionate towards all individuals.**.
Reviews for "The Aftermath of Witch Hunt 2020: Assessing the Impact on Theatre Industry"
1. John - 1 out of 5 - I was highly disappointed with the Witch Hunt 2020 theatrical company. The acting was mediocre at best, and the storyline was confusing and poorly executed. I found myself bored and disinterested throughout the entire performance. The production lacked creativity and failed to captivate the audience. Overall, I would not recommend attending any of their shows.
2. Sarah - 2 out of 5 - I had high expectations for the Witch Hunt 2020 theatrical company, but unfortunately, they fell short. The set design and costumes were lackluster, and the performances felt forced and unnatural. The dialogue was weak and lacked depth, leaving me feeling unsatisfied. While there were a few moments of decent acting, they were overshadowed by the overall lack of quality in this production.
3. Michael - 2.5 out of 5 - The Witch Hunt 2020 theatrical company had some potential, but it ultimately failed to deliver. The actors seemed under-rehearsed and their performances lacked authenticity. The plot had potential but was poorly executed, leaving me confused at times. The technical aspects of the show, such as lighting and sound, were also subpar. Overall, there were elements that had potential, but the execution was disappointing.
4. Emily - 1 out of 5 - The Witch Hunt 2020 theatrical company was a complete letdown. The acting was amateurish, and the storyline felt disjointed and lacking direction. I found myself questioning the choices made by the production team throughout the entire performance. The lack of cohesion and clear vision was evident, making it difficult to appreciate any aspect of the show. Save your money and skip this one!