In the wrong hands, Anton Chekhov's plays can be torture. Sure, the physician turned playwright offers one of the most prolific voices in classic theatre. His body of work has been referenced and emulated on a global scale. Still, mediocre productions with lackluster acting abound, leaving audiences to ponder what negative karma they put in the world to deserve such a punishment.
Fortunately.CRASH Theater Company has dodged these pitfalls by driving despair to Disneyland with their fun and innovative Tararaboom: A Three Sisters Mish-Mash. The 90-minute show maintains the plot and integrity of Chekhov's original writing while adding pantomime, comedy, and original music.
Photo by Callum Adams
Olga (Rebecca Strimaitis), Masha (Kristin Wetherington), and Irina (Kristen Alyson Browne) moved out of Moscow 11 years ago. Now country residents, they sit around complaining about the lack of sophistication people around them possess. They also talk about moving back to Moscow.
If only Oprah had been to around kick them off the couch, give them each a new car, and inspire an "aha" moment. Instead, regret, reflection, and failed romance encompass their world while time passes them by.
The entire cast is comprised of alumni from The American Repertory Theater/Moscow Art Theater MFA Acting Program at Harvard University. Each of them brings a vivacious energy to the piece while simultaneously warning us against the dangers of complacency.
Those who are still mourning the unfortunate, premature death of Broadway's Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 would be wise to trek downtown to the cute and cozy Access Theater. Though not nearly as large in scope, Tararaboom brings a similar immersive quality and vibe.
CRASH Theater Companypresents TARARABOOM: A THREE SISTERS MISHMASH through October 7th 380 Broadway 4thfloor. https://www.crashtheater.com
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