'The Cherry Orchard' plays tonight, tomorrow
By Staff Writer

Picture yourself living in Russia at the turn of the century when the nation is on the edge of a revolution that could change the world.

Imagine that you were born a respected member of a rigid social structure, and that the society you have always known is dissolving. Imagine that you will soon lose your upper-class status, your friends and family, and your beloved home.

Albion College Theatre's fall production, "The Cherry Orchard," tells this story.

Madame Ranevsky, played by Amanda Geerts, Grand Haven sophomore, and her family are aristocrats who refuse to accept the changes in their lives. The family cannot pay their debts and will soon lose their beloved estate.

The story is tragic, but it also has many humorous moments. "Actors love Chekhov, because all the parts are good," said Royal Ward, professor of speech communication and theatre and director of the play. "His plays are very much like real life."

Geerts added, "People really do what his characters do. His characters aren't perfect - they're human."

As the play opens, Ranevsky is returning home from Paris to greet her family, friends and servants. Conflicts arise as they confront the turmoil around them. Her pride prevents her from facing reality.

Meanwhile, a friend tries to convince Ranevsky to divide the family cherry orchard. She refuses. "She doesn't want to move into the 20th century and out of her youth. Innocence and happiness are represented by the cherry orchard," Geerts said.

But "The Cherry Orchard" isn't just Ranevsky's story. Many characters have complex relationships and share their frustration as they communicate with one another. It's amazing how everyone ... talks past everyone else," said Michael Somers, Oakley freshman, who plays the part of Epihodov. "They never talk to each other - just like in real life."

The Cherry Orchard" opened Wednesday and plays at 8 p.m. tonight and tomorrow.

Tickets for the final two performances are on sale in Upper Baldwin from11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Tickets, if available, will also be sold at the door. They cost $1 for students and faculty and $2 for general admission.