Vakhtangov's double-bill to showcase authentic Russian drama charm
Russia's Vakhtangov State Academic Theater is bringing "Eugene Onegin" back to Shanghai, as well as the classic "Uncle Vanya," both directed by late Lithuanian theater director Rimas Tuminas.
"Eugene Onegin" has been recognized as an "encyclopedia of Russian life." Tuminas selected chapters from the novel in verse by Alexander Pushkin, and made Tatiana the real protagonist in his demonstration of the classic.
The script features original lines from Pushkin's novel in verse. The older and younger Onegins share one stage as the story starts from the older Onegin's monologue.
"It's a pity that I haven't met director Tuminas in person," said actor Vladimir Guskov, who plays the role of young Onegin in the Shanghai performances.
Guskov is a newcomer to the Vakhtangov State Academic Theater. The China trip is his first international performance tour.
"I will retain the recognized aspects of this character from the previous versions, while continually exploring the role in my own way," he added.
Award-winning Russian actor Sergey Makovetskiy will play the older Onegin. He also plays the lead role of "Uncle Vanya."
Tuminas comleted the creation of "Uncle Vanya" just before the 150th anniversary of author Anton Chekhov's birth. The year 2000 play is widely regarded as Vakhtangov's milestone work, and making its Chinese premiere this time.
Tuminas, with Chekhovian rigor and vividness, dissects the essence of human relationships, revealing the truth of life through an interplay of tragedy and farce.
Makovetskiy has consistently portrayed this role since 2009, depicting with restrained and nuanced performance an estate manager who devoted his life to an idol but suddenly faced the collapse of his beliefs in later years.
Performance info
· Eugene Onegin
Dates: September 3-4, 7:15pm
· Uncle Vanya
Dates: September 6, 7:15pm; September 7, 2pm
Tickets: 280-1,080 yuan
Venue: Shanghai Oriental Art Center 上海东方艺术中心
Address: 425 Dingxiang Road, Pudong New Area 浦东丁香路425号