Checkhov Classic ‘The Seagull’ Opens Axial Theatre’s New Season
Just because a play was written in the 19th century doesn’t mean it can’t still be relevant. That is why “The Seagull” was chosen by Axial Theatre as the work to open its 16th season this week in Pleasantville.
The play, written by Anton Checkhov, revolves around a group of actors, writers and artists who gather at an estate and struggle with their desires to succeed and the struggles that arise from finding fame or being unsuccessful. Axial Theatre founder and director of this production, Howard Meyer, said that he believes the play speaks to the celebrity culture that exists today.
“I think the cautionary tale here is that when you’re too attached to your own success and fame, it kind of destroys your life,” Meyer said.
The first of four classic plays written by Chekhov, “The Seagull” was one of the first of its kind to help shape the future of Western theater, according to Meyer. What set the play apart at the time was the elimination of melodrama and a focus on realism and truth in character portrayals. The story delves into the psyches of the characters and explores human nature in a way that no previous playwright had done.
“It’s all about people acting truthfully and capturing the truth of people’s lives, but back then it wasn’t really the norm…it’s weird to think that back then this type of theater was breaking ground because it’s so common now,” Meyer said.
Just two weeks into the rehearsal process for a show that will begin with a previews on this Thursday evening, the ensemble cast is already becoming absorbed into their respective roles and appreciating the opportunity to be a part of the production.
Michael Boyle plays Shamraev, a retired army lieutenant and son of a serf who is fascinated with fame. An Ossining resident and Eastchester High School history teacher, Boyle was excited to be part of a production that is set in Russia during a time when the country was on the verge of revolution. Boyle’s belief that people can still relate to the story endeared him to the play.
“I just think that his focus on day-to-day life in late 19th century Russia, but how it can translate to pretty much any world at any time, really is just something I couldn’t give up,” Boyle said.
Boyle, along with other cast members, felt honored to be portraying characters that have been a part of the literary world for more than 125 years. Ward James Riley, who plays Sarin, the owner of the estate that serves as the setting for the play, said he believes that Chekhov is one of the best playwrights in history, second only to William Shakespeare. He cited Chekhov’s understanding of the human heart and willingness to break tradition as reasons for the play’s longevity.
“Chekhov has been around for 125 years; there must be a reason,” said Riley. “It has a fan base in the business and in the audience because it violates many rules of the playwright; for example, his monologues are long.”
One of the oldest members of the cast, Riley has been with Axial for eight years, and is one of many who have acted in its previous productions.
“The Seagull” will be the first Axial Theatre production from South Salem resident Dan Walworth. He said that during the first two weeks of rehearsal he’s been figuring out the different dynamics and relationships between the vast array of characters and actors in the production.
Axial Theatre is expanding its original mission to include classics and revivals. Meyer said he selected “The Seagull” because it was the first play to feature a true ensemble cast. He noted that although the play is neither complicated nor confusing, it features a variety of complex themes and the cast and crew have been working diligently to do it justice.
“It’s a profound play; it’s so dense, it’s so specific…there aren’t any light scenes,” Meyer said. “Every day in rehearsal, we’re working hard and we’re working deep because it’s complex material, in the best sense of the word.”
“The Seagull” will have its opening night this Saturday, Nov. 8 and run weekends through Nov. 23 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, located at 8 Sunnyside Ave. in Pleasantville. There will be a preview performance on Friday, Nov. 7. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and students. All opening night tickets are $35.
For reservations, call 1-800-838-3006 or visit www.brownpapertickets.com.
Examiner Media – Keeping you informed with professionally-reported local news, features, and sports coverage.
