Cherry Orchard ripe for UCOL performers

Anton Chekhov would be impressed with the treatment The Cherry Orchard has received from UCOL’s Certificate in Performing Arts students.

“Chekhov was most insistent that this play was perceived as a comedy,” says Performing Arts lecturer Penni Bousfield. “So we have amped up the physical comedy, emphasising the awkward, sometimes clumsy, actions of the characters.”

With careful modification, The Cherry Orchard has also fulfilled the necessary criteria for the six month certificate programme’s public performance.

“It is always tricky to find a play with sufficient acting and singing roles for the eleven strong certificate class, says Penni. “This programme’s talented troupe has composed their own songs to accompany their dramatic roles. There is a lot more music and dance than you would expect in a Chekhov play.”

The Cherry Orchard has also been shortened to a one and a half hour performance, half of the original length.

Set at the turn of the 20th century, The Cherry Orchard was one of Anton Chekhov’s five full length plays. A medical doctor by profession, Chekhov is also known for his short stories.

The Cherry Orchard will be performed at the Performing Arts Studio in the Buckman Building, Princess Street from 2 – 4 December at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available at the door $5.

ENDS