Too Much Chekhov
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The review of “Uncle Vanya” by Michael Phillips (“Chekhov on Mild Side,” Oct. 9) lacked certain things, such as intelligence, wit and insight--but, unfortunately, not ego. His review was more about his view of Chekhov and how he believes Chekhov should be interpreted today. He wrote 10 paragraphs, but only three of them concerned the play at the Geffen.
I found this production to be a marvel. The acting was uniformly wonderful, with Robert Foxworth’s Vanya being especially moving. The performances by Peter Donat and Megan Follows revealed the hearts and souls, or lack thereof, of their respective characters.
In the end, the audience comes to care about all these characters, wondering about their futures, so full of grim hope. Why? Because of the exceptional performances and staging of this timeless tale.
JOHN DOHERTY
Beverly Hills
Was Phillips’ review of the Geffen’s “Uncle Vanya” an actual review of the play or an essay on “stuff I know about Chekhov”?
LLOYD NOONAN
Culver City
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