Theatre South Carolina presents Anton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard, now playing at Drayton Hall Theater, as a comedy, something unusual in Russian theatre. As directed by Jim O’Connor, the play is filled with comedic elements, although the underlying tragedy is always present, and there is a strong sense of the Russian propensity for laughing and crying at the same time.
The story involves aristocrats, a woman, her daughters, and her brother, who must sell the family home because they can no longer pay the mortgage. The home is bought by a peasant who has grown into a wealthy man and loves one of the daughters, although he can never manage to tell her so. Vicky Saye Henderson is a lovely Lyubov, the charming aristocrat who can’t handle money, and Charles Whetzel gives a moving performance as her brother. Tom Angland, as the former peasant, friend, and now wealthy neighbor, is absolutely wonderful. His performance is understated and deeply affecting.
Rebecca Williams and Marybeth Gorman play the daughters very nicely, and the rest of the large ensemble cast perform well, although there is no attempt for consistency in accents. This performance is lovely to look at, and the set by Nic Ularu and costumes by Kelly Fitzpatrick are enchanting. The set often steals the show, and the ending is especially effective.
Technically, this production is better than excellent, and the attention to detail is quite marvelous. Lighting designer Aaron Pelzek and sound designer Christine DeFrancesco also contribute a great deal to the overall mood. This play is not as dark as the usual Russian drama, and while the dialogue can get stiff and slow, it generally moves well, and there are a number of laughs throughout.
It’s worth taking a look at The Cherry Orchard, playing through November 19; call 7-2551 for reservations.
11/05
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