With several productions to his name, Benedict Andrews is fast gaining a reputation as a master of Chekhovian interpretation, now reinforced with the opening of The Cherry Orchard at the Donmar Warehouse, a captivating and visionary take on the Russian playwright’s final work.
This production, though a very different take, keeps the core story at its heart. Set on the Ranevsky family’s estate in Russia, which includes a valuable cherry orchard, and is about to be auctioned off due to the family debt. The matriarch, returns from Paris following a five-year absence, still grieving the death of her young son.
Local businessman Lopakhin (Adeel Akhtar) urges Ranevsky to divide the cherry orchard and rent out the land, in order to save the estate. But, Ranevsky and her family are too attached to the traditions and status the orchard represents.
The play explores social change; highlighting the traditions of those with ‘old money’ – though now in debt – and the extravagances of the nouveau riche. Chekhov’s original charted the decline of the Russian aristocracy and the new realities of Russia in the early 20th century. In Andrews’ production, it’s the socio-economic gap which is discussed further, through characters such as Pyotr (Daniel Monks).
Under the direction of Benedict Andrews, this production delves deep into the humanity and complexities of Chekhov’s characters, delivering something that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.
It’s also emotionally raw, throwing out the traditional trappings of a Chekhov play in favour of a more immersive experience. Cast members mingle with the audience, and occasionally the audience take to the stage.
Magda Willi’s set design sees every surface draped in ornate carpet. Props are all but non-existent, and a discreet Samovar is the only nod to previous productions. As the orchard is sold, and the family forced to leave, the space also transforms into a cold and unwelcoming cavern, a literal and visual reminder of the themes of The Cherry Orchard.
The production navigates the delicate balance between comedy and tragedy that is so integral to this Chekhov’s work in particular. There are genuine laugh out loud moments, even as the characters come to terms with their circumstances. June Watson as Firs and Éanna Hardwick as Semyon provide the greatest comic relief.
The highlight of the evening has to be a sensational UK stage debut from Nina Hoss, with a nuanced and captivating performance as the grieving and emotionally scarred landowner. Hoss effortlessly captures the conflict of the character; the desire to keep things as they’ve always been, while recognising the damage that would also bring.
Benedict Andrews’ The Cherry Orchard transposes the societal upheaval of early 20th century Russia to modern day societal shifts, and amplifies Chekhov’s themes of change and progress in a profound way.
The Cherry Orchard is at the Donmar Warehouse until 22nd June 2024
