The Seagull

Theatre students are taught that the original opening night of Anton Chekhov's The Seagull, in 1896, was an absolute disaster. In contrast, Black Swan State Theatre Company's production of this play, using a new adaptation by Hilary Bell, was well received and will no doubt receive much critical acclaim. This is a well produced, expertly acted incarnation of a good new adaptation of the script.

Hilary Bell has created a relatable, comparatively slick script, while staying true to Chekhov's original intention. This script feels substantially shorter, eliminates extraneous characters and removes much of the repetition of the original.

Fiona Bruce's design deliberately embraces both the traditional look of an 1890s theatre and a more 'avant-garde meets modern realism' approach, in a lovely blend that highlights a debate on theatre that takes place early in the play. Her costumes beautifully evoke the era and are a wonderful insight into each character

A wonderfully atmospheric show, the strong performances are supported, not only by Fiona Bruce's strong design, but by empathetic lighting design by Jon Buswell and evocative but unobtrusive composition by Ash Gibson Greig.

Much of the success of this production is due to Kate Cherry's thoughtful direction and creation of some beautiful moments, and to excellent acting performances.

Greta Scacchi brings a touch of fame to the production in the way her character Arkadina brings a famous presence to the country setting of the play, and she convincingly portrays the exotic, aloof and overly passionate famous actress. She is a lovely casting choice and a beautiful (and I imagine, deliberate) contrast to the familiar face of Rebecca Davis, well known and loved by Perth audiences, who plays the downtrodden, melancholy and dowdy Masha in an excellent performance.

No weak links in this excellent cast. Luke McMahon is strong as hot-headed, impulsive Konstantin, nicely paired with newcomer Leila George who shows a wonderful character journey in Nina. Michael Loney is likeable and well received as elderly Sorin. Andrew McFarlane finds depth in handsome Doctor Dorn.

Ben Mortley is appropriately handsome and charming as the celebrity writer Trigorin. Adam Booth brings energy and personality to the Medvedenko - and is especially strong in his silence. Sarah McNeill (Polina) and Greg McNeill (Shamrayev) are given less to do, but deliver solid performances.

The Seagull is an excellent opportunity to be able to see a classic, often thought of as tired and uninviting, in a new way. This is a fresh, accessible and entertaining look at The Seagull, a must see for regular theatregoers, students and especially for those who think that they don't like Chekhov.

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Greta Scacchi and Ben Mortley; Andrew McFarlane, Greg McNeill, Greta Scacchi and Sarah McNeill, & Leila George and Ben Mortley in The Seagull. Gary Marsh Photography.