New Directions: Play 2- ‘The Chekhov Term

Andre Jewson looks on as Rachel Perk and David Ligudzinski smooch. Pic Bob Seary

Australian playwright Sam Atwell’s play ‘The Chekhov Term’, the second play in the New Theatre’s current New Directions program, is a contemporary four hander capturing four young people Alex, Jo, Anna and Rire at the prime of their lives, doing drama school and communal living in Brisbane. Their current term sees them ensconced in the work of Anton Chekhov and they find that the words and the wisdom of the great Russian playwright carries plenty of resonance for them in their own lives.

In Chekhov’s classic play ‘The Three Sisters’ Olga dreams of living the provincial township and getting to Moscow. In ‘The Chekhov Term’ Alex’s and Jo’s ambition is to leave what they see as the sleepy hollow of Brisbane and to pursue their acting dreams in the big smoke of Sydney.

Johann Walraven directs with a light, wry touch that works well. The cast give relaxed performances. The play opens with the two men, Alex and Jo, sharing a bong, an unceremonious but very believable way of Atwell introducing us to the world of young people sharing a communal household!

Andre Jewson and David Ligudzinski work together well as the two likely guys, Alex and Jo, friends who share the same passions for theatre and for enjoying beers and having a good time with the girls.

Rachel Peck does some good work as Jo’s moody girlfriend Anna whom Alex also has feelings for. Zoe Balbi is a seductive presence as Rire, Jo’s acting sparring partner whom Jo also beds!

Adam Chantler’s set is a comprehensive depiction of a modern share household. The bathroom is represented via a shower cubicle, kitchen re a kitchen sink, and dining room re a dining room table and chairs. The most interesting design concept was the representation of the bedroom area re a frequently used double bed standing up against the back wall, which sees the cast do some interesting work.

A poignant, wistful new Australian play, ‘The Chekhov Term’ played the New Theatre, 413 King Street, Newtown between the 21st and the 24th of July, 2010.