INTERVIEW: This character is haunted by love in his ‘Chekhov Dreams’
Photo: The Chekhov Dreams stars Elizabeth Inghram and Dana Watkins. Photo courtesy of Arin Sang-urai / Provided by Jim Randolph Media Relations.
The Chekhov Dreams, currently playing the Beckett Theatre at Theatre Row in New York City, imagines a romance between two people — except, well, one of the partners is dead. That’s no problem because it’s all in a night’s work for the cast and crew of John McKinney’s new dark comedy.
Leslie Kincaid Burby directs the production, which follows Jeremy (Dana Watkins) and the dreams he has of his dead fiancée. Also included are Jeremy’s brother and Jeremy’s acting partner who is working on a scene from an Anton Chekhov play.
In addition to Watkins, the cast includes Elizabeth Inghram, Charlotte Stoiber, Christian Ryan and Rik Walter. Performances run through Feb. 17.
Recently, Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Watkins, who was last seen in 59E59 Theatres’ Playing God by Alan Zweibel. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
How did you first get attached to the production?
I was first introduced to the script about 10 years ago when I was introduced to John by an actor I’d just worked with and was asked to do an informal reading of the play. I’ve been circling it ever since.
What do you find interesting about your character?
He’s a broken man trapped by his depression and unable or unwilling to break free and rejoin society. As this is a comedy, the challenge of finding the balance between the truth of his journey and the humor of the piece was one I could not pass up.
Are you a fan of Anton Chekhov?
Absolutely! I’ve been in productions of both The Cherry Orchard and Uncle Vanya, and would love to do more.
What do you like about John McKinney’s words and Leslie Kincaid Burby’s direction?
John has written a very complex character in Jeremy, but more than that, he has provided me with wonderful foils throughout the journey, which make every scene a challenge and delight.
Leslie gave me the freedom to fail. The trust implied in that freedom is priceless and made every rehearsal a joy of discovery.
When did you first discover your love for acting?
I started performing at the Metropolitan Opera at the age of 7 and spent the next nine years on stage almost every night. … I was a goner from a very early age.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
The Chekhov Dreams continues through Feb. 17 at the Beckett Theatre at Theatre Row in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.
