7/2/2011 The Cherry Orchard in HD

Zoe Wannamaker

We attended a screening of Chekhov's The Cherry Orchard broadcast live from the Olivier Theatre in London on Thurs., June 30 at BAM Cinema. This is the latest production that they have broadcast (somewhat) live in that it is recorded at a live performance of the shows. Previously we have seen London Assurance, Fela, and A Disappearing Number. Cherry Orchard starred the wonderful Zoe Wannamaker, who we have had the privilege of seeing in London in His Girl Friday and Battle Royale, and in New York in Awake and Sing! Her performance was marvelous in all of these productions.
If you have not seen one of the high definition broadcasts presented by the National Theatre Live, it is a wonderful experience. They film the productions immaculately, provide the best of England's actors and actresses, and give us a chance to see shows that may not come here.
The next production is in Sept. and it is called The Two Guvnors. It looks to be very funny. This is a modern day take-off of the Italian writer Goldoni's play called The Servant of Two Masters. We did a production of the play when I was at Akron University, and had great fun with it. Look for the National Theatre Live showings, I don't think you will be disappointed.