The Seagull by Anton Chekhov

Version by David Hare

Stephen Simms director

On a quiet estate in the Russian countryside near Moscow, a famous actress arrives like a whirlwind, along with her younger lover, an equally famous writer. The peace of nature is broken by violent jealousy, intrigue, lies and cold manipulation. The hell that can be other people is revealed. Passions rise and spill across two years, fuelled by unrequited love and artistic rivalry.

Anton Chekhov’s 1895 classic is a bitter-sweet comedy with tragic undertones, written as one century rushes to its end, and an uncertain future threatens to engulf the characters’ lives.

Brought to life in David Hare’s wry and witty 2015 version, the characters are often sharp and painfully funny, as they struggle with eternal questions of what is our life’s purpose and meaning, or just simply how to get by from one day to the next.

Suitable for ages 16+.