Press Release: “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” at Cotuit Center for the Arts

Cotuit Center for the Arts presents Christopher Durang’s comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” October 4 to 21. Performances are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2 PM. Mary Arnault directs.

“’Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’ is a satirical and wildly funny mash-up of Chekhovian themes and characters that needs no familiarity with the Russian playwright,” said Arnault.

The modern comedy turns Chekhov on his head. The play is centered around the lost opportunities and dashed dreams of middle-aged siblings Vanya (played by John Weltman) and Sonia (played by Margy Mahrdt), who were named after Chekhov characters by their academic parents who were devoted to community theatre. The hapless siblings have stagnated in their childhood home in Bucks County, PA, after having cared for their parents in their declining years. The dire predictions of their cleaning lady, Cassandra (Janet Geist Moore) only add to their ennui.

They are paid a surprise visit by their movie-star sister, Masha (Celeste Howe), who pays the bills. Masha has come with her new boy toy, Spike (Elliott Sicard), to inform them that she plans to sell the house. Meanwhile there’s a costume party to attend nearby—and Masha’s competitive instincts are inflamed by the appearance of Nina (Cara Gerardi), the pretty young niece of a neighbor. Pretty soon the normally quiet household is thrown into utter upheaval.

“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” was awarded the 2013 Tony for Best Play, the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play, and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play.

Set design is by Andrew Arnault, costumes are by Alan Trugman, lighting design by Greg Hamm, and sound design is by Kempton Parker.

Tickets are $35, $30 for balcony seating. There is a $5 discount for members and a $2 discount for seniors and veterans. Cotuit Center for the Arts is at 4404 Route 28 in Cotuit. For more information, visit www.artsonthecape.org or call 508-428-0669.

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What:

“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” by Christopher Durang

Where:

Cotuit Center for the Arts, 4404 Route 28, Cotuit

When:

October 4 to 21, Thursday through Saturday, 7:30 PM; Sunday at 2 PM

Admission:

$35, $30 for balcony seats. $5 discount for members; $2 discount for seniors and veterans

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