Coe theatrical production stages The Cherry Orchard
Written by Anton Chekhov and directed by Dennis Barnett, “The Cherry Orchard” sows the story of Madame Ranevskaya, an aristocratic woman grieving the ultimate loss — the loss of a child. Leaving her family behind, she flees to Paris in an attempt to escape her heartbreak.
The peace Madame Ranevskaya craves is nowhere to be found. Familial debts abound and word spreads that her family estate, including a vast cherry orchard, will be sold at auction. Madame Ranevskaya and all of her memories return to Russia as the estate is prepared for disposal.
Ultimately the family loses their ancestral estate.
Humor and romance are woven throughout “The Cherry Orchard” with the introduction of strategically placed characters. A governess, housemaid, clerk and manservants all add witty and eccentric dialogue through improbable situations.
Chekhov’s tragicomedy is a reflection of the socio-economic forces at work in Russia during the turn of the 20th century. The rise of the middle class ultimately led to the fall of the aristocracy and the abolition of serfdom.
Performances of “The Cherry Orchard” will be on stage at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 26 and 27 and Nov. 1, 2 and 3 and 2 p.m. on Oct. 28 in the Dows Fine Arts Center at Coe College.
Coe values its location and relationship with the Cedar Rapids community and looks forward to providing exceptional theatrical productions. Established in 1851, Coe has a national reputation for academic excellence enhanced by a student-centered, highly supportive campus environment. Our success in offering superb academics and exciting co-curricular activities stems in large part from our location in a thriving urban setting that promotes student growth and success. As such, we welcome the community to participate in this event.