Contemporary ‘Ivanov’ mixes tragedy, comedy

The UIC Theatre’s contemporary adaption of Anton Chekhov’s “Ivanov,” a tale of tragedy and comedy, unfulfilled lives and lost souls, opens Friday.

Yasen Peyankov, head of UIC’s acting program and an ensemble member of Steppenwolf Theatre, directs the production, adapted by Peyankov and Peter Christensen. Student actors perform.

“My goal was to create an actor-friendly, contemporary-sounding American adaptation that would not take any liberties with the language,” Peyankov said.

Chekhov’s first anti-hero — the depressed, indebted government official Ivanov — has learned that his wife is dying, just as he is pursued by a younger woman and chastised by an idealistic doctor who doubts Ivanov’s commitment to his wife.  Relatives, friends and neighbors may meddle, but Ivanov must find his own way.

The play will be performed Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Performances next week will be Nov. 20, 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m.;
 Nov. 19 and 23 at 2 p.m.; and
Nov. 18 at noon.

All performances are in the UIC Theatre
,1044 W. Harrison St.

Tickets are $17 for general admission and $12 for students at the box office or online.  For information, call 312-996-3991.