You bet I was leaning on the edge of my seat all ears when it came to that final scene between Elena and Astrov during Lincoln Center Theater’s astounding production of “Uncle Vanya.” That scene was and is a huge part of the foundation of mine and Lauren’s friendship; memories I’ll always hold dear to me! And getting to see a full scale production of this tragicomedy with my scene partner made it an experience I’ll also hold near to my heart. And I’m so thankful LCT brought out the best in this production with an exceptional cast and creative team. This new adaptation by Heidi Schreck maintains the gloomy and foreboding Anton Chekhov atmosphere in the best way possible, only this time around, it brings the indirect text to the forefront. You’d think this be an issue given how Chekhov is one who writes in a way that the meaning behind one thing is completely about something else, but no, this version actually makes the characters even more tragic and human, and even pop out in ways you won’t ever forget them. Lila Neugebauer, fresh off “Appropriate,” has masterfully concocted an “Uncle Vanya” that truly transcends time periods, proving that this play is just as timeless as it was when it premiered in the 19th century. We’re looking at a much more modern, present day take that goes in the minimalist direction with the only real elements being pieces of mismatched, possibly thrifted dull-colored furniture along with muted Earth-colored everyday clothing, and only splashes of color in the things that make individuals in the household happy (that’s brilliantly saying a lot about how much unhappiness exists in this play). Neugebauer brings the feelings of envy, love, despair, and even a bit of hope to the surface not by force, but with measured precision scene by scene until it all boils over at the climax, which is an emotional rollercoaster all on its own! And you absolutely can’t get over this cast of pros even after it’s said and done. Steve Carrell just continues to prove he is one of the most versatile actors of this day and age; you'll laugh at and pity him as Vanya because he just knows how to bring the emotional depth to this renowned character into play, and the results are incredible! Anika Noni Rose as Elena is a tragically moving portrait of a woman who can make others happy but not herself; she makes you want her to have a happy ending even though Chekhov doesn't make that feasible (that alone is an incredible feat, brava!). Alison Pill makes a sweet and heartbreaking Sonya, and she is such a natural at making her heightened text come off in ways that are natural and just make you understand so easily without googling words and metaphors. William Jackson Harper made a perfect Astrov that I couldn't take my eyes off of; so rich in self hate and even regret in a way I truly loved. Alfred Molina, while not a meaty role, still makes himself loud and proud as the aging professor that you do have sympathy for. And even the smaller roles of Jayne Houdyshell, Mia Katigbak, and Jonathan Hadray find their moments in the spotlight to shine. It's amazing how much "Uncle Vanya" is still a play for our time, especially in the current climate we live in. I can't tell you how happy I am to have my expectations met for this play, and I hope for all you Chekhovians out there that it meets your expectations too!
