The Seagull, one of Anton Chekhov’s masterpieces is the final production under the Library Theatre Company banner in Manchester before it becomes Home, the new organisation created by its merger with Cornerhouse.
This version re-imagines the play in the 21st century, while retaining all of the original’s drama and comedy. It will also be Chris Honer’s final production as artistic director, after leading the company for more than 20 years.
“We haven’t produced a Chekhov for well over 30 years,” says Chris, “but when Anya Reiss’s wonderful new version of The Seagull appeared in 2012, it was an irresistible choice. It is regarded as a serious play in some quarters, but there are lots of jokes. It is shot through with humour, as well as tragedy.”
When a famous actress, with her celebrated novelist lover, visits the isolated country estate of her brother, it plunges the family into a torrent of tensions, both comic and dramatic—particularly when her insecure son tries to impress her with a play he’s written.
The production runs at The Lowry from February 21 to March 8.