Uncle Vanya March 20, 2010

By Anton ChekhovDirected by Lev DodinA Worlds Stage Production from RussiaCelebrate the 150th anniversary of Anton Chekhovs birth with this acclaimed production featuring Russias leading actors. This extraordinary Worlds Stage event marks the Chicago debut of the Maly Drama Theatre of St. Petersburghailed by Peter Brook as the finest ensemble in Europe. Artistic Director Lev Dodins production of Chekhovs classic has won worldwide critical acclaim and now comes to Chicago for five performances only.When retired Professor Serebryakov and his young wife Yelena return to the remote family estate, routine life is upended for his daughter Sonya and her Uncle Vanya, who have remained in the country to manage the farm. Disillusioned lives, an uncertain future, and frustrated desires begin to overwhelm them, as Vanya and Astrov, the local doctor, fall under Yelenas spell, and Sonya, who for years has longed for Astrov in secret, finds herself in competition with Yelena.Anton Chekhovs 1899 comic masterpiece was instrumental in the creation of modern drama and the development of our contemporary acting style. The actors of St. Petersburgs Maly Drama Theater have studied and worked together for decades under the direction of Lev Dodin, creating an unparalleled acting ensemble. Their subtle, finely observed production captures the longing and humor of this landmark Russian classic.