You may have noticed the posters (designed by illustrator and cast member Toby Melville-Brown) for Rye Players’ next production or the rehearsal photographs shared on social media. The words “Chekhov double bill” might not conjure an immediate promise of light-hearted entertainment, but bear with me.
Anton’s comedies occupy a delightfully quirky genre of their own. Even in translation, there is evidence of a keen ear for the foibles and posturings of human beings. This is a playwright who balances comedy and tragedy beautifully. Chekhov’s comic characters resonate across time, transcending languages and cultures. They are every bit as awkward and absurd as Victor Meldrew or Basil Fawlty and we recognise them instantly. With her choice of The Bear and The Proposal, director Janet Stott is bringing the best of these comedies to the stage in Rye. The cast of six sets relative newcomers alongside acting veterans to create the strange alchemy that brings the characters to life.
Weeks of rehearsal have taken place in a hut not noted for being warm and cosy in the winter months, but it’s probably appropriate for the Russian country settings. The actors have learned their lines, props have been sourced or borrowed, and the word spread in the community by A Rye Good Time, Rye Fine Wines and the inimitable Kt Bruce, among others.
The players are returning to the Rye Community Centre, glowing from its recent makeover and this production is ready to welcome wonderful audiences at the three shows. Each play runs for about half an hour and the interval will showcase the talents of two members, Xan Kite and Larry Wilson, musicians both, who will provide entertainment in the form of Russian folk songs. The seating is cabaret style, meaning you can enjoy a drink at your table.
Janet Stott says: “Chekhov is often perceived as dry and highbrow, but these plays are knocking that theory right out of the ball park! It surprised me when I found out, laughed and read them again. The audience is in for a fun time.”
Tickets for The Proposal and The Bear by Anton Chekhov can be booked here. Or you can buy them at the door for each of the three performances on Friday, May 23 at 7:30 pm or Saturday, May 24 at 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .