Costumes Out Perform Actors at CSC

Anton Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya” recently opened at the Classic Stage Company in New York City with Maggie Gyllenhaal, Denis O’Hare and Peter Sarsgaard among the popular cast.  Unfortunately, the show was not complete when it went into previews early February. 

This play, which takes place in turn of the century Russia, was dark and depressing and the actor’s didn’t add many levels.  It was confusing with a foggy plot, characters motives were unclear and blocking seemed to be unmotivated making the production appear to be a rehearsal.

The well known cast, which also included, Cyrilla Baer, Andrew Garman, Mamie Gummer, Delphi Harrington, George Morfogen and Louis Zorich, was practically out shined by the 1900 period costumes they wore.

The floor sweeping dresses for the female characters were more intricate and interesting than the men’s.

Yelena Andreevna (Maggie Gyllenhaal) is the main female character and was the only one who changed costumes during the three act play. Although Yelena is married to Professor Alexander Vladimirovich Serebryakov (George Morfogen), she was also lusted after by Uncle Vanya (Denis O'Hare) and Dr. Mikhail Lvovich Astrov (Peter Sarsgaard) whom she attempts to have an affair with. 

Both of Yelena’s costumes were bright and created an airy feeling about her in opposition to the darker tones worn by other characters who are more grounded than she is.  Her beige and white dresses are also made out of lighter, more delicate fabrics and featured details that were very intricate.

Sofia Alexandrovna or Sonya (Mamie Gummer), who is plain and looks after the country house year round with Uncle Vanya, wears a gray plaid tweed skirt. And a flower decorated cotton button down shirt that is reminiscent of a cowgirl.

Maria Vasilevna Voinitskaya (Delphi Harrington), who also lives at the country house with her son, Uncle Vanya, and Sonya, is glad to have the professor visiting. She is also dressed in brown tweed long skirted suit.  Her tan lace shirt decorated by a golden locket which is very visible to the audience.

Considering the amount of work that went into the costumes, the character development and direction of this production of “Uncle Vanya” have a long way to go.

(photo from Playbill.com)