Writing

Anton Chekhov’s Albatross

A new play by Adam Meggido

Anton Chekhov, the famous doctor and writer, is going to die.

Torn between sexual indulgence and workaholism, Anton’s lifestyle demonstrates a denial of mortality, a man unable or unwilling to apply his trademark perception for humanity to himself.  

Born to an emancipated serf, Anton has risen quickly in Russian society, taking his family with him. Life at his estate in Melikhovo inspires the clans and families he will later become famous for portraying. He grapples with the pressures of supporting an ageing father - who physically and emotionally abused Anton as a child - his mother and siblings, as well as juggling various affairs, most notably with Lika Mizinova, a young woman he loves deeply but withholds opening up to.

Financial burdens force him, against his better judgement, into writing a play for the blunt, populist newspaper owner and surrogate father figure - Alexei Suvorin. Anton’s mercenary ability to steal from the lives of those closest to him sees it grow into something with wings…The Seagull. But at what cost to those who know him? And when the play’s premiere is panned by critics and audiences alike, Anton’s health and reputation fall into steep decline.

Anton must confront his past to understand himself, save his relationships, and overcome his issues of intimacy. Not only will this allow him to live but ensure that The Seagull will fly forever.

An epic, hilarious and heartrending drama chronicling five years in the life of Anton Chekhov as his reputation ascends from failure to the genius who changed drama forever.