Heidi Schreck's translation and adaptation of Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya has joined the licensing catalogue of Concord Theatricals, newly part of its Samuel French imprint. The company has secured exclusive worldwide English-language stage licensing rights to the work, which debuted last season on Broadway via Lincoln Center Theater.
“I’m thrilled to be teaming up again with Concord Theatricals, my publishing home for almost two decades,” says Schreck—whose work licensed by Concord also includes What the Constitution Means to Me, Creature, and Grand Concourse—in a statement. “Living with Uncle Vanya and Anton Chekhov right now—in particular with the profoundly resilient character of Sonya—has given me more compassion for our poor confused species. I'm indebted to my brilliant colleague Tatyana Khaikin for helping me parse the nuances of Chekhov's language in an attempt to create a translation that feels contemporary and alive."
“Heidi’s haunting translation and adaptation of Chekhov’s classic feels contemporary in its raw humanity, heart, and humor,” adds Concord Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Artistic Development Amy Rose Marsh. “We are thrilled to be continuing our relationship with her brilliant writing, following the artistic and commercial success of Grand Concourse and What the Constitution Means to Me.”
First published in 1897, the work centers on its title character, a man disappointed in having spent his life managing the family farm while his brother-in-law pursued an academic career. The premiere of Schreck's adaptation starred The Office's Steve Carell in his Broadway debut, along with Alison Pill, Alfred Molina, Anika Noni Rose, and William Jackson Harper, with Lila Neugebauer directing.
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