Library Theatre’s The Seagull at The Lowry

When Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull was first performed in 1896, audience members were so hostile that some of the cast temporarily lost their voices. It was not until Stanislavski directed the play a few years later that it met the expectations Chekhov held for the play. This version of The Seagull has been written and brought up to date by Guardian favourite Anya Reiss, who brings out the humour of the characters in this play of love triangles, abandonment, unrequited love and the fears that keep us from our hopes and dreams. Yet it still retains the pathos of the original. Cast members looking to Stanislavski’s methods for inspiration in this 21st Century adaptation include Ben Allen (Propeller Theatre Company), playing the hopeful yet despairing playwright Konstantin, Sophie Robinson, who plays the part of budding actress Nina, and the familiar face of ex-Coronation Street star Graeme Hawley as Trigorin. This, the Library Theatre Company’s final production before it becomes HOME,  is directed by Chris Honer – his last as the company’s Artistic Director.

Fri 21 Feb – Sat 8 Mar, The Lowry,  8 The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, times and prices vary, www.librarytheatre.com