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Regional Reviews: Raleigh/Durham Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Also see Garrett's review of Junk
Vanya (the perfectly dry-witted Chris Brown) lives with his adopted sister Sonia (a hilarious Morrisa Nagel) in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. After fifteen years spent caring for their ailing parents, now dead, Vanya and Sonia know no life outside of their childhood home. This odd couple has settled into a life of strained companionship, neither having married or developed any meaningful relationships outside of their immediate family—unless you count Cassandra (a delightful Shana Fisher), their housekeeper with uncanny if annoying clairvoyant skills. This isolated existence has been financed by their sister Masha (the wonderful Christine Rogers), who has enjoyed a lucrative career as a film actress. Masha's sudden arrival with her boy toy Spike (the strikingly handsome Tim Fitch) in tow sets in motion a plot that involves a costume party and its aftermath. At first glance it might seem that nothing past those names comes directly from Chekov. But Durang has woven numerous other references (both to Chekov and many other plays) into the text, the plot, and its themes, all treated with a quirky humor. Beyond the play's focus on the complexities of family relationships, it also deals with the loss of nostalgia and the struggle to accept change. It's not necessary to have a deep knowledge of Chekhov's plays or theater in general, but that does help one to appreciate much of the humor even more. Director Mike McGee, a Forest Moon favorite, and his creative team have put together a satisfying production, but overall this play is little more than a sophomoric diversion that pays absurd homage to the works of Anton Chekhov. Humor abounds, though, and this cast, including the talented Amanda Axelrod as a visiting neighbor, gamely lean into every absurd moment. That's enough to send you home with at least a lighthearted smile. Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, through June 23, 2019, at Forest Moon Theater, Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St. Wake Forest NC. Tickets can be purchased at forestmoontheater.org or by phone at 919-435-9458. Playwright: Christopher Durang Cast: |
