For those who have only read a few works by the 19th century Russian dramatist Anton Chekhov cover-to-cover, A Green Oak by a Curving Shore (
Scenes from Chekhov's Ivanoff, The Cherry Orchid, The Three Sisters, The Sea Gull, Uncle Vanya and Ward Number Six are adopted into a gloomy montage in Rive Gauche Theater's (河左岸劇團) newest production. What the crisscrossing story lines have in common is the characters' heart-wrenching desperation as they feel caged in by situations they are unable to change.
"I have loved, hated and believed in my own special ways. I have worked 10 times harder than others, have had 10 times more hopes than others. I have been drunk, exulted and crazy. ? Well, what else can I do," Lee quoted a monologue from Ivanoff to describe his present mood, which led him to create the play.
The cavernous former brewery in Huashan Arts District serves as an adequate setting for the play's bleak plot. Around four concrete columns, eight actors are scattered about in three or four different scenes at the same time, giving the old gray building a desolate air.
Despite the play's esoteric content, non-Chekhov buffs in the audience will easily appreciate the brilliant performances of the cast members, who utter each line with convincing emotional intensity. Hsu An-ling (徐偃玲) and Fa in particular make a strong impact with their body language, managing to liven up the arcane and solemn monologues that fill the play, making the melancholy enjoyable.
Performance notes:
Rive Gauche Theater performs A Green Oak by a Curving Shore: Our Own Private Chekhov tonight at 8pm, and at 5pm and 8:30pm on Saturday and Sunday at Huashan Arts District, located at 1 Pate Rd., Sec. 1. Tickets are available at Acer ticketing outlets.
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