Chekhov’s Russian realism helped forge the acting and dramatic storytelling techniques of the last century and the dilemmas of his characters remain passionate and human, funny and heartbreaking. With a large ensemble cast, the play weaves together the story of a woman desperate to find safe harbor in love, in defiance of social approval, with the stories of her brother, daughter, and step daughter, all facing whole new marriage and economic landscape; a man raised in poverty and servitude who now might be able to own the estate his ancestors toiled on; and of a host of teachers, travelers, servants, workers, and small officials who make up their world. What if that world cannot continue on as it was? Will this be the moment when the string holding it all together shatters?

• Oct. 30, 31 & Nov. 5, 6, 7 | 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday Matinee: Nov. 7 | 2 p.m.