Written by Anton Chekhov
Translated by Karen Vickery
Directed by Caitlin Baker
Presented by Chaika Theatre
ACT Hub Theatre, Kingston to 21 April
Reviewed by Len Power 10 April 2024
Written in 1895 in Russia by Anton Chekhov, his play, “The Seagull”, has developed a classic status over the years, with characters and situations that still resonate with audiences.
An examination of human nature, the play focusses on a group of people who come together in a remote setting. They know each other well but their surface interactions hint at hopes and feelings that become clearer to us as the play progresses. Searching for love and recognition, they mostly find pain and desperation by looking in the wrong places.
In a new translation entitled “Seagull” by Karen Vickery, the setting is contemporary rural Australia. The modern dialogue gives a sense of recognition to the characters without losing any of the subtleties or humour in the text. It is clearly the work of someone who knows the play intimately and Vickery has successfully made it a play that modern Australia, especially, can relate to and embrace.
Caitlin Baker, the director, has set the first half of the play in a simple outdoor setting which relies on the location under the spotlit trees to give it an atmosphere of space and remoteness. The second half plays inside the theatre with a more detailed and conventional setting with old-style furniture, creating a feeling of claustrophobia that suits the intensity of that part of the play.
Amongst the cast, Natasha Vickery is particularly effective as Nina, her nervous, fluttery energy while desperately trying to impress others is endearing and ultimately moving. James McMahon plays the difficult role of Trigorin - enigmatic on the surface with a studied charm that arouses our suspicions. McMahon captures this character very well.
Karen Vickery is a tower of strength as Irina, the fading actress and a selfish, attention-seeking woman. Her desperation at the thought of losing her young lover is both frightening and pathetic. As Konstantin, Joel Horwood is thoroughly believable as a tragic, neurotic young man living in his mother’s shadow. Everyone else in this strong cast bring their characters to life with clarity, depth and colour.
“Seagull” is a success on every level. It’s thoroughly engaging, often funny and, ultimately, very moving.
Len Power's reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs.
