Chekov’s achingly sad yet mordantly funny play finds fresh life in this adaptation by Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith, first staged by Sydney’s Ensemble Theatre in 2024. Now, Anne-Louise Sarks directs a new production for MTC. Uncle Vanya and his niece Sonya have spent years managing a run-down country estate in rural Russia to support the work of Professor Serebryakov. When the professor arrives, accompanied by his beautiful, younger wife Yelena, their quiet routine is shattered. Reviewing the Ensemble production, Limelight said, “Murray-Smith’s adaption feels faithful to Chekhov’s tone and temper, but updates the language and downbeat humour into something the contemporary Australian ear can tune into immediately.” Daniel Henshall plays Vanya, with Philippa Northeast as Sonya, Shaun Micallef as Serebryakov and Catherine Van-Davies as Yelena.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Experience Anton Chekhov’s masterful examination of the human condition, filled with humour, frustration and the fragile hope of change. Artistic Director Anne-Louise Sarks brings this tragicomedy to life featuring Daniel Henshall (Snowtown, The Babadook), and Catherine Văn-Davies (The Twelve).

In a once-grand estate in rural Russia, a group of relatives and visitors grapple with the slow unravelling of everything. Uncle Vanya and his niece Sonya have spent years managing the property to support the work of an esteemed professor. When the professor arrives – accompanied by his beautiful, younger wife Yelena – their quiet routine is fractured. Vanya’s longing for Yelena only deepens his discontent, while Sonya silently endures a heartbreak of her own.