Skepticism could be an extension of prudence. It could also be a trait that forestalls any attempt at exploring new ideas or realities.
That said, skepticism was the prevailing feeling with which I had arrived at the Gene Frankel Theater to watch the new production of Chekhov’s “Ivanov” – just to be pleasantly surprised by the experience that had unfolded.
In fact, the use of the word “experience” is appropriate here, as you are not only watching the performance – you are a part of it to the extent that you are in a middle of the action and the actors are not hesitating to come close or even to bump you on occasion.
And the best part is that there is no stiffness or robotic adherence to the script.
The actors literally feed of each other creating ambiance not unlike the one you’d experience at home, while they keep every scene in balance from all the angles available to the audience sitting along the perimeter of the stage.
The individual acting is superb with no attempt at phony Russianness and yet perfectly believable.
Good Direction combined with imaginative and frugally effective stage and costume design help to make this experience truly complete.
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