Although not as well known as 'The Cherry Orchard' and 'Uncle Vanya' perhaps, 'Three Sisters' is still one of Anton Chekhov's best. Being once again a masterpiece of complex characterisation (that is not one's definition of "likeable" but very realistic in realistic situations) and bleak, poignant mood. Chekhov's prose was met with a lot of scorn in his day, but 'Three Sisters' is a strong example of why this was not deserved. Also saw this for the talented cast, Kristin Scott Thomas being the most familiar name.
This is a rather uneven production of 'Three Sisters', as amazing as the play is it has rarely been nailed in performance and this one is no exception. It does have a number of impressive things, with one major aspect in particular being in a different league to everything else, but considering how good the play is and the talent part of me was somewhat disappointed in that this was not at least very good. Chekhov is very difficult to adapt and perform and to be honest it is not hard to see why with this production.
Kristin Scott Thomas is the best thing about. She is absolutely exquisite, if there has been a more expressive and moving interpretation of Masha on stage that has yet to be seen. Of all the performances of Masha seen in performance or on film, she has only been bettered by Joan Plowright in the Laurence Olivier film (one with fine performances on the whole but very stagy and never quite there in mood). Other strong performances are from Eric Sykes, David Burke and Margery Mason, and Kate Burton's Olga is beautifully subtle.
Did think that the costumes were quite nice. Some scenes come off very well, especially the scene between Irene and the Baron before the duel and the touching ending, with some very interesting and not seen before character interaction. Chekhov's prose is still powerful.
However, this production also could have been better. There are a couple of exceptions with the acting. Did find James Fleet too boorish, or at least he overdid the boorishness of the character, while also finding Susannah Wise too histrionic and borderline vulgar which felt really out of place. Was not crazy about the sets, too sparse and also too cramped.
Chekhov's mix of humour and tragedy has rarely been nailed in film and stage adaptations/productions, can only think of a few at the top of my head (the National Theatre Live production of 'Uncle Vanya' immediately springing to mind) and it isn't here. Actually didn't think that the humour was noticeable all that much and the final act was badly in need of more intensity, only towards the end is there signs of any.
In summary, a lot to admire but also couldn't help feeling disappointed. 6/10.