Best of British theatre comes alive in Lorne

Lorne Theatre will give its patrons the opportunity to experience a night at the theatre tonight (Friday, March 8) with a special screening of the National Theatre Live performance of Vanya.

National Theatre Live, with its unique blend of cinema and live theatre, aims to bring the best of British theatre to the silver screen.

Vanya was filmed live during its sold-out run in London’s West End last year and stars Andrew Scott of Fleabag and All of Us Strangers fame.

The performance is a radical adaption, co-created by Scott and British-Irish playwright Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov’s 1897 tragicomedy Uncle Vanya.

The play follows Ivan (Uncle Vanya), a man who has spent his life managing the business affairs of his family without much acknowledgement for his efforts.

With a love triangle at its centre, delicate group dynamics are thrown into disarray when plans for the family home change suddenly.

The adaption follows the source material closely, tackling themes such as hope and regret, albeit with a modern update.

Scott’s performance, in which he plays every character, has been praised by critics as a masterclass in acting.

Head of programming Jessa Shields said Lorne Theatre was thrilled to welcome audience to the screening.

She said its inclusion in the program was a testament to the theatre’s “commitment to bringing world-class experiences to audiences right here in Lorne”.

“This adaption, led by the incomparable Andrew Scott, offers a fresh and profound take on Chekhov’s classic,” Ms Shields said.

“This one-man show has garnered acclaim for its innovative approach and Scott’s masterful performance, making it an event that theatre-lovers and cinephiles alike won’t want to miss.”

The screening of Vanya will begin at 7.30pm.

Lorne Theatre is at 78 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, head to lornetheatre.ourgoldenage.com.au