After the farcical hilarity of Platonov, this second play in the Young Chekhov season returns to the playwright’s more sombre world – angst, anger, crying and illicit love - the classical theatre’s version of EastEnders.
Ivanov, a failing landowner heavily in debt, has a consumptive wife who, it is suggested, he married for her money.
He is adored by Sasha who has youth and beauty as well as family riches to offer.
After his wife’s death he tries to go through with the wedding to Sasha but he battles with his conscience regarding shame and scandal that would ensue. The battle ends with tragedy.
Seen in conjunction with Platonov the play suffers by comparison.
It is far too wordy particularly in the first act.
The drama is lightened by comic scenes that depict the local society’s hypocrisy, obsession with money and the considerable consumption of vodka.
There is a wonderful drinking scene which Peter Egan, Jonathan Coy and Des McAleer play superbly.
As Ivanov, Samuel West delivers a fine performance as he strives to bring sympathy to a character that is deserving of none.
His anti-Semitic roar at his dying wife shocks brings forth a highly audible gasp from the audience.
Four stars
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