Review: The Seagull
The Seagull
Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull is an exploration of artistic tradition versus innovation. Konstantin, a young playwright, struggles with his strained relationship to his famous actress mother, Arkadina, and his growing infatuation with Nina, the girl next door. However, Nina is romantically interested in Arkadina’s lover, Trigorin. While the plot may sound more like French farce than Russian tragedy, the play itself is an entertaining and intelligent view of human relationships.
It is lighter than most Chekhov plays, yet still takes an indepth look at human psychology. I am, however, of two minds about the quality of this particular production. The cast and crew express an enthusiasm for the project, and much thought has gone into details. All of this is encouraging, but something about the production misses the target. The acting is good, but far from flawless, with fluctuating ability expressed and some forced moments.
Rosie E Leach gives an entertaining performance as Arkadina, but there are moments when Leach looks like she is mimicking rather than making the character her own. John Owen executes well comical facial expressions as Trigorin, and Ruth Vincent, who plays Masha, is amusing, with good line delivery. Since this production seems to be an odd mix of comedy and melodrama, it is better suited to indecisive winter weather than the playful summer.
8th Jun 2006