Photo Flash: The Reston Community Players Presents Durang's Comedy VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE

The Reston Community Players are proud to present Christopher Durang's comic masterpiece, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Play, January 20 - February 4, 2017.

Tony-Award-winning playwright Christopher Durang transformed Chekov's Uncle Vanya thrusting it into the present day, translating the quiet, bittersweet Russian characters into very modern-American counterparts. Critics called it "a comic tour de force" (Village Voice), "the funniest play in town" (Bloomberg News), an "utterly refreshing...sweet, witty play with a huge pop culture appetite" (Associated Press) and "terrifically kooky" (Entertainment Weekly).

Vanya and Sonia, two middle-aged siblings, live quietly in the country until their sister Masha, a B-list Hollywood star, and her boy toy Spike visit with a plan that will upend their existence. Durang himself says, "I take Chekhov scenes and characters and put them in a blender."

"You don't need to know (or like) Chekhov to enjoy this show," said Tel Monks, director of the production. "But every now and then something might remind you of another time and another place and another playwright. In the meantime, just enjoy this funny, funny play."

The cast features Andrew JM Regiec (Vanya), Lee Slivka (Sonia), Joanne Maylone (Masha), Will MacLeod (Spike). The cast is rounded out by Suzy Alden (Nina), the stage-struck ingénue next door, and Alexa Yarboro (Cassandra), the house cleaner, whose special powers include (almost) being able to see the future.

The creative team includes Tel Monks (Director); Joann Monks (Assistant Director); Bea and Jerry Morse (Producers); Amy Headlee (Stage Manager); Maggie Modig (Set Designer); Tom Geuting (Master Carpenter); Lilya Eberle (Running Crew Chief); Charlotte Crockett, Rick Stegman (Running Crew); Adam Konowe (Lighting Designer); Diane Cieslak (Light Board Operator); Sara Birkhead (Master Electrician); Jon Roberts (Sound Design); Michelle Couste (Sound Board Operator); Judy Whelihan (Costume Design); Mary Jo Ford (Properties Acquisition); Sandy Dotson (Properties Runner), Bea and Jerry Morse and Julia Cherundolo (Set Decoration); and Sue Pinkman (Hair and Makeup).

The production plays on the CenterStage at the Reston Community Center. Evening performances are January 20-21, January 27-28, and February 3-4 at 8:00pm, with one matinee performance on January 29 at 2:00pm. The show has some adult language. For tickets and information call the box office (703) 476-4500 x3 or buy tickets online.

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York.

Reston Community Players (RCP), now in its 50th season, is a 501c3 non-profit organization that has been producing quality theatrical productions since 1966. The Reston Community Players has brought to the public a variety of theatrical experiences over the years and is committed to theatrical excellence and professionalism through the promotion of diverse, creative experiences for the education and cultural enrichment of the community. Partially funded by grants from Fairfax County, in cooperation with the Arts Council of Fairfax County, RCP welcomes all and offers something for everyone. Visit RCP online at www.restonplayers.org.

Photos credit: Traci J. Brooks Photography

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