The CAA Theatre has been transformed into a gloomy, storm-filled Russian estate for Mirvish Productions’ Uncle Vanya. One of Chekhov’s most famous works has been brilliantly adapted by Liisa Repo-Martell, and paired with Chris Abraham’s insightful direction, it’s a production for the ages. Initially premiering at Crow’s Theatre in 2022, and I could not be more happy to have been able to see this new realization as part of Mirvish’s season.

Uncle Vanya tells the story of a family living together on a rather large estate in rural Russia. Ivan, or Vanya, his niece Sonya, and his mother Maria, live there full time and take care of managing the estate. They also have Marina, their housekeeper, as well as their friend Ilya Telegin, more lovingly known as Waffles, living with them. Their world gets turned upside down when Sonya’s father, the professor, and his new, much younger wife, comes to live with them. Suddenly, the country doctor, Astrov, shows up a lot more and stays for days at a time, and Vanya and Sonya have all but stopped their work around the estate as well. Tensions run high as money runs tight and tempers flare in this funny, yet sad, yet somewhat hopeful play.

To get to see a production for a second time, but in a new space with a new structure is a dream. There were certain elements which I remembered right away, while others felt new and exciting all over again. The differences in staging allowed me to look at and experience the play in a new way, while still telling the same engaging story. We don’t frequently get to see remounts here in Toronto, so I’m very grateful that Mirvish picked up this particular production to restage.

Joshua Quinlan and Julie Fox’s already impressive set design has been transformed and is now transplanted onto the CAA Theatre stage. What was once surrounded by the audience has now been contained within the three walls of the proscenium stage, creating a sense of voyeurism for the audience. I am amazed at how this set looks exactly like how my brain had filled in the walls two years ago; the drab, artless walls with signs of neglect and age are a perfect companion to the tables, chaise lounge, and mantle piece of the original set design. Being able to see the bits of detail which before had been tucked away in the corners of the theatre completed the set for me and gave me a full idea of the contents and layout of the room, as well as the manner in which these characters have been living. Ming Wong’s costumes continue to dazzle and suit the characters perfectly; we understand so much about the characters from their clothes, and Wong’s designs truly capture each personality.

I recall being mightily impressed when this cast was assembled two years ago, and must admit I was elated to see that the full ensemble was able to reunite for this production. Tom Rooney’s portrayal of Vanya is as hysterical as it is heartbreaking; doling out witty quips, sad laments, and borderline unhinged rants at any given moment. Rooney does it all with the most excellent comedic timing, only to be matched by his co-star Eric Peterson as the professor. Peterson’s boisterous delivery and over-the-top antics make the professor an explosive character; he leaves destruction in his wake every time he exits the room. Meanwhile, Carolyn Fe’s Marina gives me all the warm fuzzies as her calm, caring nature comes through in her performance. Shannon Taylor’s Yelena is one of the most enchanting yet pitiable characters I’ve encountered, and Taylor embodies all of her many aspects with elegance and grace. I love that characters like dtaborah johnon’s Maria float in and out of the scenes, but always make an impression as they do! johnson’s performance exudes the diva nature of her character while also having impeccable comedic timing. Anand Rajaram makes me smile in whatever role he’s playing, however Waffles was made for such a vivacious and expressive actor. Likewise, bahia watson’s Sonya feels tailor made for her; watson’s nuanced performance makes this unfortunate yet compassionate and hopeful character impossible to take your eyes off of. Finally Ali Kazmi’s performance as Doctor Astrov makes it easy to understand how both Sonya and Yelena fall in love with him. Kazmi’s suave demeanour paired with Astrov’s brilliance and thought for the future make him a breath of fresh air in an otherwise dingy household. I find myself once again in awe of this cast and their performances and I am so grateful to have been able to witness their masterful talents together once again.

Even if you think you’ve seen Uncle Vanya, I can promise you that you’ve never seen it done like this and you won’t want to miss it. Truly a tour-de-force of Toronto theatre at its best, Uncle Vanya is one for the history books. It runs until February 25th, so get your tickets soon! For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.mirvish.com/shows/uncle-vanya

---

Cover Photo: (l to r) Tom Rooney as Vanya and Carolyn Fe as Marina. Photo Credit: Dahlia Katz

---

Thank you to my Patrons:

B. Kinnon, D. Moyes, D. Nelson

And to my supporters who’ve bought me a coffee:

Angelica and Paul, Anonymous

Would you like to become a Patron? Check out my Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/AViewfromtheBox

Or, you can buy me a coffee at: buymeacoffee.com/aviewfromthebox