What is the significance of Chekhov, in the context of post-dramatic theater? What would conceptual Chekhov look like? And what if the Seagull was approached, not as a play, but as a text, a series of images, a pile of paper or as performance art? The cast gather to read Chekhov and consider longing, the passage of time and the concept of European realism, both then and now. Using Chekhov’s works as a starting point, the ideas they engender are brought to reflect on the present day.

In the show, Chekhov is approached through realism and nostalgia. Stage representations of Chekhov are associated with porches, lace curtains and endless cups of tea as time passes and people sigh. Chekhov in theater represents nostalgia: a series of fully-drawn characters, with both plot and narrative proceeding uninterrupted. In his time, Chekhov was a representative of realism. Today, realism equals a constant flow of news images and an unstoppable flood of information. What does this have to do with early 20th century realism?

The concept:

4 performers

4 chairs

1 samovar

1 classic text

White boots

Jumping teeth

3 liters fake blood

Paper, scissors and the postmodern context,

passion, analytical mind, curiosity, will and nostalgia.

Believing in yourself, destiny and art,

and few sleepless nights.

Mix carefully. Enjoy without prejudices.

 

Directed by Pilvi Porkola.

Performed by Niko Rajala, Sirja Sauros, Tuire Tuomisto and Pilvi Porkola.

Produced by Kiasma Theatre.

Project was supported by Arts Promotion Centre Finland and Helsinki City.

Performed in Finnish.

Photos by Pilvi Porkola.