TFS Stage Production of Russian Comedy ‘To Be or Not To Be’ Explores Lure of Political Power
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Toronto Film School’s Christopher Sawchyn has long desired to direct a Russian comedy on stage, so when he chanced upon Miriam Laurence’s To Be or Not To Be, he knew it was, in fact, meant to be.
“I fell in love with this story that explores the danger of celebrity and the lure of political power,” he said of Laurence’s translation of Nikolai Erdman’s 1928 play The Suicide, which is regarded as one of the finest plays to have come out of Communist Russia.
“She’s expertly crafted the humour, nuance and characters in a such a relatable way to an English-speaking audience, and it works well for a class of young actors.”
“I love to collaborate when creating art and this gaggle of multi-skilled students have been willing to experiment with me,” he said, noting that it didn’t hurt to have both a Ukrainian dancer and a Russian-speaking actor amongst the members of his cast.
“I am grateful for this dedicated ensemble, some going above and beyond to make my ‘vision’ come to life.”
To Be or Not To Be, which is stage managed by Cobourn Sands, will take to the stage at the Papermill Theatre for a three-performance run on June 18, 19 and 20 as follows:
- Tuesday, June 18 at 7 p.m.
- Wednesday, June 19 at 9 p.m.
- Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m.
The Papermill Theatre is located at Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery Rd. Tickets are free and available at the door.
The Creative Team Behind To Be Or Not To Be:
Ella Plummer as Serafima / Zinka
Amey Pedrelli as Dominus
Jason Billay as Alexander
Caleann Walker as Pugy / Madam Sofie
Danil Kim as Yegor
Jay Fowler as Oleg / Henriette
Jenna Harvey as Masha / Grunya
Reza Arzhang as Viktor
Laurielle Iliza as Margarita
Jeffrey Torcato as Aristark / Vladime
Klein Wilhelm as Semyon
Mirrella Marino as Raisa
Demevie Riesgo as Cleopatra
Seth Cody Pacquin as Father Yelpidy / Vladiue
Cobourn Sands – Stage Manager
Christopher Sawchyn – Director
