'Ivanov' by Anton Chekhov, in a new version by Tom Stoppard
24 September 2008On Saturday we were in London to see Kenneth Branagh in ‘Ivanov’ – Chekhov’s first play in a new version by Tom Stoppard. It was an impressive production with a starry cast and it was wonderful to see this rare appearance on the London stage by Branagh. His naturalistic performance subtly gripped rather than punching you between the eyes – resisting the temptation to wear his technique on his sleeve – and you had to look closely to see the small mannerisms betraying his character’s developing depression. It was very much an ensemble piece with a show-stealing comic performance from Kevin McNally and excellent contributions from the wonderful Gina McKee and the Andrea Riseborough as young Sasha. I’m not sure I was convinced by the play – I found the tone uneven and the allusions to Hamlet a bit laboured – but there were some stunning moments and it was often very funny.
posted by Robin Simpson @ 3:53 pm
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