The Present

About

The Sydney Theatre Company’s production of The Present is Andrew Upton’s contemporary adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s early, untitled play commonly referred to as Platonov. Directed by John Crowley, the Broadway engagement at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre featured the original Australian cast, including Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett and Richard Roxburgh, marking their Broadway debuts. The design team included Alice Babidge (sets and costumes) and Nick Schlieper (lighting), with original composition and sound design by Stefan Gregory. Transferring from Australia to New York, the production maintained its ensemble and creative approach while presenting Chekhov’s themes through a modern lens. The strictly limited run was presented in English and spanned over three hours including one intermission.