Concord Theatricals has announced it has secured exclusive worldwide English-language stage licensing rights for Heidi Schreck’s translation and adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya” through its Samuel French imprint.
Schreck, who has worked with Concord Theatricals for nearly two decades, expressed excitement about collaborating again with the company. “Living with Uncle Vanya and Anton Chekhov right now — in particular with the profoundly resilient character of Sonya — has given me more compassion for our poor confused species,” Schreck said in a statement. She credited Tatyana Khaikin, with whom she collaborated on the literal translation of the original text, for helping her bring Chekhov’s nuanced language into a contemporary context.
Originally published in 1897, “Uncle Vanya” explores themes of love, disappointment and the passage of time. Schreck’s translation remains faithful to Chekhov’s original work while giving it a modern edge. The play centers around Sonia and her Uncle Vanya, who have spent their lives managing a family farm until their world is disrupted by the arrival of Sonya’s father and his wife.
Schreck’s translation premiered at Lincoln Center Theater’s Vivian Beaumont Theater on Broadway on April 24, 2024, directed by Lila Neugebauer.
Additional works by Schreck, including “What the Constitution Means to Me,” “Grand Concourse” and “Creature,” are also represented by Concord Theatricals.
