10 Mar-30 Apr 2005. Hedda Gabler is without doubt Henrik Ibsens most widely acclaimed play that since it was finished in 1890 has been performed throughout the world. To many he was the father of modern drama with his preoccupation with the personality, society, anxiety and family and social pressures. For many actresses the role of Hedda Gabler is the ultimate dramatic test much like the roles of Hamlet or King Lear for male actors at the top of their profession. Hedda Gabler is still the archetype of the unfulfilled woman who is imprisoned in a world of frustration and miscontent leading her to manipulate the lives of others and eventually turn to suicide. It is a classic modern tragedy. The Almeida theatre is presenting a new version of the Ibsen classic directed by Richard Eyre the former Director of the National Theatre between 1988 and 1997. Eve Best plays Hedda Gabler. Her recent theatre work includes award-winning performances in Howard Davies production of Mourning Becomes Electra.