“An Orchard for Chekhov” opens today!

My translation of Pedro Brício’s “Um jardim para Tchekhov” opens at Upstream Theater in St. Louis today! If you’re in the area, come see it! The cast is absolutely fabulous and the whole production is really coming together nicely. Here’s how the Upstream website sums it up:

Actress Alma Duran is going through hard times but hasn't lost her ability to dream, to invent a future. Chekhovian in tone, the play explores (with great humor) conflicting emotions and social tensions against a contemporary backdrop of intolerance and violence. Above all it shows affection, beauty, the power of imagination--and the ability to laugh at our pains. By Brazilian playwright Pedro Bricio, translated by Steven K. Smith. U.S. Premiere.

Find a fuller background piece at https://stlouisarts.substack.com/p/us-premiere-of-an-orchard-for-chekhov.

The script version of this play includes several references to music, both specific and general. As rehearsals have progressed and the cast and crew have immersed themselves in the wonderful world of Brazilian song, even more music has been added. Click on “Um jardim para Tcheckhov” above next to the date to learn more about the play’s “soundtrack.” In addition to the songs there, the play will include other Brazilian music (that may appear in translation here on the Anvil over time) including Caymmi’s “O vento” and “Maracangalha” and “Você não sabe amar” as well as Cartola’s “Tive sim” and more.

Merda!