Insignificance

​​​​​​For this adaptation, we decided to go the unconventional route and run the original Russian text through Google Translate. The translation was not very good, as you might expect, but it was an intriguing reference for Fly to write a completely new version in their own words. 

Fidelity to the source text varies wildly and is an essential element in the concept of an adaptation of a classic play (I'm a total nerd for adaptation, especially Chekov and Shakespeare). We intended to do a transformative adaptation, or a loose adaptation that resembles, but is ultimately very different from, the original. Most of the original characters and relationships remained, but the plot points, thematic ideas, and overall visual aesthetic would be transformed for a contemporary audience,  experimenting with storytelling elements. 

​​​​​​​The most radical alteration  was the addition of a bear character. A bear is mentioned in the original play (and is also a common symbol for Russia), but Chekov's play was very realistic in style, so of course the bear is never seen. 

Fly and I were interested in the metaphorical power of a bear. In this adaptation, it served as a metaphor for Masha's struggle with alcoholism, which also isn't explicitly in the original, but the symptoms are common in Chekov's characters.