Quannapowitt Players' "The Seagull": A Riveting and Driven Performance

“In all the universe, nothing remains permanent and unchanged but the spirit.” - Anton Chekhov, “The Seagull.”

As its first show in 2026, Quannapowitt Players presents “The Seagull,” a tragicomedy by Anton Chekhov. The play follows a group of artists at a country estate, where creative ambitions and unrequited love affairs collide. A question strikes them - what is the pursuit of happiness?

I didn’t know anything about “The Seagull” before attending Quannapowitt Players' final dress rehearsal. Its philosophical themes showcase creativity, understanding happiness, and finding one's value, which struck me. Although it contains grim themes, “The Seagull” taught me to appreciate life and value what I have in the present moment.

Quannapowitt Players’ “The Seagull” is driven by an outstanding ensemble. Some cast members had lengthy monologues to memorize and delivered lines poetically and with prolific speaking voices. They dove into complex emotions and their relationships.

The show opens with a stage as Konstantin (Michael Mazzone) eagerly awaits to present his latest work. Konstantin is an ambitious artist who lets his ego get ahead of him. Mazzone was emotionally raw, conducting a sincere performance.

Becki Greene is incredible as Nina. She performs several monologues, my favorite being her delivery in Konstantin’s play. Mazzone and Greene have wonderful chemistry. While Greene effectively brings out Nina’s bubbly personality, she experiences a strong emotional discovery when Nina decides to take a new direction in her dreams.

Dreams are important to each character. For some, it’s gone to their heads, like Irina Arkadina (Sara Jones), while Trigorin (Ted Silva) absorbs others' dreams. While conveyed as subtle antagonists, their characters reflect the value of living in the present rather than clinging to past successes and the pressure for future notoriety.

The play features several key characters essential to the storyline, who are fighting for a purpose. Masha (Morgan Flynn) and Medvedenko (Alex Deroo) capture the quiet ache of their characters unreturned love. Ken Tucci mixes a comical and dramatic touch as Sorin, a sixty-year-old landowner, who is disappointed with his decisions.

Shamraev (Jon Nuquist) is bitter about undefined recognition, while Polina (Sarah Logsdon) is unhappy in her marriage. Casey Preston has a strong stage presence as Dorn, a doctor, who acts as the outside party in the affairs. He observes the situations closely, trying to add helpful advice.

No part is ever small in the theater, as Marissa Mason (Maid), Nathan Prosperi (Yakov), and Laura Liberage (Cook) play characters who help with the events.

One of the production's strongest elements is its use of setting. Upon entering the Quannapowitt Players’ auditorium, Matthew Lundergan's stage design of four handmade trees adorned the black box. And then in the second act, those same trees open up, revealing a home setting. That’s the magic of theater.

I researched more about Anton Chekhov’s work after the play. Matthew Lunderson’s direction signified a clear understanding of Chekhov’s intentions. He built a strong dynamic between the cast as tension rises throughout the show. The play has four acts, starting as a comedy and gradually becoming a drama.

Fair warning, certain themes may be triggering for audiences. Since this play debuted, mental health has been treated more seriously. The final scene surprised me, and the buildup of apprehension leading to a shocking final line that stays with you.

Although a bleak undertone, “The Seagull” made me appreciate life more. The play emphasizes the importance of talking about feelings and dreams. This show is a way to connect with audiences and talk about the themes. The world is complicated, so avoid bottling up feelings. Live life to the fullest.

“The Seagull” plays at Quannapowitt Players Jan. 16 through Jan. 31. It’s a moving and enticing dramatic play, led by a talented team of actors.