Red Theater's Production of The Seagull Transcends Time

Clever adaptation and crisp direction bring Chekhov's classic to life in Chicago

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Splash Magazines Worldwide reviewer Corrine Oak was initially apprehensive about reviewing a Chekhov play, but was impressed by Red Theater's production of "The Seagull". Director Ian Maryfield's clever adaptation and crisp direction made the late 19th century classic incredibly engaging, allowing the timeless story of human connections, unrequited love, and quiet disappointment to resonate with modern audiences. The talented cast, led by Jamie Herb as Nina and Kason Chesky as Kostya, brought the characters to life, while the production's design elements, including Hunter Cole's scenic design and Kate Schnetzer's sound design, elevated the experience.

Why it matters

Chekhov's works are often seen as confusing and plot-heavy, but this production proved that his stories can still captivate modern audiences when presented with the right approach. By stripping away the perceived complexities and focusing on the universal human experiences at the heart of the play, Red Theater has demonstrated the enduring relevance of classic literature and the power of thoughtful, innovative theater.

The details

The Seagull is set on a Russian country estate, where a group of characters grapple with unrequited love, professional jealousy, and the feeling of inauthenticity. The young writer Kostya (Kason Chesky) stages an experimental play starring Nina (Jamie Herb), the girl he loves, but his mother, the famous actress Irina (Anne Sheridan Smith), dismisses his work. Nina becomes infatuated with Irina's lover, the successful writer Trigorin (Josh Razavi), while Masha (Magdalena Dalzell) pines for Kostya. The play explores the characters' heartbreaking decisions and the sense that their lives are something to be endured rather than celebrated.

  • The production ran from Saturday, February 14 to Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • Performances were held on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 3 PM.

The players

Ian Maryfield

The director of the production, known for his clever adaptations and crisp direction.

Jamie Herb

The actress who played the role of Nina, the girl Kostya loves.

Kason Chesky

The actor who played the role of Kostya, the young writer who stages an experimental play.

Anne Sheridan Smith

The actress who played the role of Irina, Kostya's mother and a famous actress.

Josh Razavi

The actor who played the role of Trigorin, Irina's lover and a successful writer.

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What they’re saying

“I have to admit I was a tad bit intimidated to review a Chekhov play. Somehow, we are all led to believe that Russian stories are incredibly confusing, plot heavy and laden with far too many twists and turns.”

— Corrine Oak, Reviewer (Splash Magazines)

“If this all sounds incredibly dreary, fear not, there are also more than a few laugh-out-loud moments such as when Masha states 'I told myself to stop drinking but I don't listen to drunks.'”

— Corrine Oak, Reviewer (Splash Magazines)

What’s next

The production at The Edge Off Broadway in Chicago has concluded its run, but Red Theater may consider reviving the show or touring it to other venues in the future.

The takeaway

Red Theater's production of "The Seagull" has demonstrated that classic Russian literature can still captivate modern audiences when presented with a fresh, innovative approach. By stripping away the perceived complexities and focusing on the universal human experiences at the heart of the play, the production has proven the enduring relevance of Chekhov's work and the power of thoughtful, accessible theater.