We Play Chekhov
by Breaking String Theater

Aug. 14 - Aug. 24, 2014

Breaking String's We Play Chekhov includes two of Chekhov's masterful short stories adapted for the stage, presented as a double-bill in what will be the perfect summer night out for any theater-goer. The Black Monk (adapted by Kama Ginkas and translated by John Freedman) depicts Andrei Kovrin - a writer who is visited by an apparition in the form of a monk, dressed in black. The monk bears a tantalizing message: Kovrin's art flows directly from God. But when loved ones suspect a mental illness, this joyful chapter in Kovrin's life becomes a terrifying encounter with madness, megalomania and the mystery of artistic creation. 

The second half of our double-bill features the world premiere of playwright Eliza Bent's adaptation of Chekhov's final story, The Fiancée. In Bent's The Beyoncé, a young woman's engagement to a wealthy young man leaves much to be desired. Nadia's search for authentic love and purpose in a small town set her at odds with the community, and she faces the challenge of finding her own destiny in the world. Bent re-imagines Chekhov's wrenching story of love and self-discovery in a voice that is absolutely fresh, unique, and resonant with Chekhov's delicate humor.

Cast and Crew:

Directed by Graham Schmidt with assistant director Bob Jones and featuring performances by noted artists Matt Radford, Ev Lunning, Jr, Noel Gaulin, Kathleen Taylor, Katherine Catmull, Lana Dieterich, and Judd Farris, with design by Ia Enstera (scenic), Pam Fletcher Friday (costumes), Steven Shirey (lights), and Buzz Moran (sound). 


We Play Chekhov
Breaking String Theater

August 14 - August 24, 2014
Long Center
701 West Riverside Drive
Austin, TX, 78704

Tickets: 

  • $20 - $40, sliding scale (general admission)
  • Monday, August 18 - Artists Pay-What-You-Can Industry Night
  • Wednesday, August 20 - All audiences Pay-What-You-Can
  • Student rush tickets released 10 minutes before curtain for all performances: $15
  • Available soon online, or by calling 512-474-LONG (5664)