‘Platonov’ is Chekhov at his most raw, his most open, his most bare.
Chekhov examines the tensions between great
love and lesser love. He allows his characters to tread on their hearts while
he tugs at their strings.
At the centre of this drama, he leaves
Mikhail Platonov- a young, middle-class intellectual ridden with restlessness.
The women around him are seduced by his
liberality, but when they discover that what Platonov offers is not an
alternate life but a darker existence plagued by cynicism, they are forced to
reevaluate- often in the most brutal of ways.
This production, adapted and directed by Anthony Skuse,
recontextualises the play from its rigid Russian origins to a more familiar
setting. It is fresh and modern, and doesn’t shy away from Chekhov’s bold
intentions. Chekhov highlights the boredom and monotony of Russian country
life, and Skuse likens it to our unsettled and desire-driven world of today.
To accompany Skuse’ adaptation, Cat
Dibley’s costume design is contemporary and easy-going. It didn’t feel forced
or contrived, but rather made the production all the more fluid.
The folk music performed by the cast was
moving, magical. It was a clever homage to Chekhov’s time and a thoughtful
thoroughfare between the two contexts.
The space at ATYP was well used, with the
actors performing between two banks of seating. It forced us to keep the other
audience in view, and never fully released us from our present reality.
Chris Page’s lighting design was minimal
but striking. The use of industrial lighting accompanied the weight of the play
well and the spotlights were use appropriately.
Charlie Garber fit sublimely into the role
of Platonov. He was easy-going and quick-witted and able to bear the brunt of
the play on his shoulders. Playing his wife, Matilda Ridgway gave an endearing
performance- she can be simple and naïve and sweet, and yet her strength and
sensitivity is captivating.
Geraldine Hakewill also gave a charming
performance in the role of Platonov’s early lover, Sofya, whom he returns to. She
was delicate and deliberate in her performance. And to lift the weight of these
characters, Jason Perini as Burov is unforgettable. Even in a smaller role he
makes each moment memorable
The production breathes new life into
Chekhov’s writing. It explores each angle and stretches it out to its full
potential. Anthony Skuse and his committed cast gave ‘Platonov’ a second chance
in life and love.
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