BYU Theatre Students Bring a Classic Adaptation of Russian Playwright Anton Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard” to Life
BYU Theatre brings the work of one of the most influential playwrights of all time to the stage with “The Cherry Orchard” by Anton Chekhov, whose work emphasizes subtle character development and the complex nature of the human experience. Chekhov wrote the play in the last year of his life, drawing inspiration from his own observations of the decline of Russian aristocracy.
“The play tells the story of people in everyday situations — striving to find happiness, coping with problems, sometimes erupting in emotions due to love nearly requited, sometimes imploding with frustrations over stupidity — very much like our lives today,” said director Adam Houghton. “Chekhov wrote during a period of major political and social transition and his works revolutionized the direction of modern theatre. BYU Theatre chose the play because it reveals the complexity of the human condition with honesty and tenderness.”
For student Buttercup Izsó, who plays the character Varya, the most meaningful theme that the play explores is the bittersweet beauty of learning to love something that eventually changes or ends. “Some characters find success, but most have to face the reality that they cannot hold on to the blossom season forever,” said Izsó. “Other seasons come and they must know what they can hold onto and what they will need to let go of. While there is a sadness to it, the story doesn't end when the curtain goes down; just like with the cherry trees, spring will come again.”
Tickets and Show Details
When: Mar. 28 – 29, April 1 – 4, 8 – 12 at 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 29 and April 12 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: BYU West Campus Studio Theatre
Price: $17 – 20
Tickets: Available online at BYU Tickets.
