Teatret Vårt: Vanja

Simon Stephens’ innovative monologue has thrilled both audiences and critics in London. Vanja received the prestigious Oliver Awards and was described by reviewers as “the show of the year”. Based on Chekhov’s classic, Stephens creates a new, modern look at the story of love, art, desire and a failed assassination attempt.

Vanja and her niece Sonja have for years run Sonja’s father’s estate, financed his career and lived on the dream of his greatness. When the professor returns home from the city with his young, beautiful wife, and plans that threaten everything they have built, their illusions unravel. What are they left with? Was their life wasted?

Lars Melsæter Rydjord fills the stage with power and presence, in close collaboration with musician Sindre Klykken. Music and text seamlessly merge and create an intense and vivid experience that draws you right into the performance. With precision, pace and warmth, Lars elegantly shifts between the disillusioned Vanja, the hopeful Sonja, the self-absorbed professor and the irresistible Jelena, while hope, frustration and comedy unfold on the estate.

After the successes of Three Sisters, The Seagull and The Cherry Orchard at the National Theatre, director Hanne Tømta now takes on Chekhov's universe with her distinctive blend of humour, sharp gaze and human insight. With her she has set designer Arne Nøst, one of Molde's most renowned artists. He has created a beautiful and atmospheric set design that creates a visually seductive landscape.

Anton Chekhov is considered one of the foremost playwrights in world literature. Next to Shakespeare and Ibsen, he is among the most performed. His depictions of man's attempts to create meaning in a troubled world are as strong today as when the plays were written.

Welcome to Vanya, a strong and vivid monologue that takes you on a journey into Chekhov's universe, where old dreams, fragile hopes and deep longings are given new life.