Theatre Northwest, the performance company of the Indiana University Northwest Department of Performing Arts, is proud to announce its spring production of “Vanya,” by Sam Holcroft. First produced in 2012, this play is adapted from the Anton Chekhov classic currently enjoying a successful run at Goodman Theatre in Chicago.

The show is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on April 7-8 and 13-15, and a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 9. All performances take place at Theatre Northwest on Grant, 3660 Grant St., located one mile west of the main campus at 37th Avenue and Grant Street. The show will be the department’s final time performing in this space before the move to the university’s new Arts and Sciences building opening in August.

Assistant Professor Mark Baer directs a strong cast of students in this challenging four-person play, featuring: Nathan Pratl in the title role, Vanya; Elizabeth Ramos as Sonya; Sydney Elizabeth Hale as Yelena, and Samuel Lee as Astrov.

The production will feature scenic design by Associate Professor Kathy Arfken, technical direction by Tim O’Donnell, costume design by guest artist Brenda Winstead, lighting design by guest artist Maya Michelle Fein of Chicago, and sound design by an IU Northwest student, Brian Thomas-Chopps.

Additional IU Northwest students will be working behind the scenes, including: Joshua Kime as the stage manager; Amber Holley and Leann Powell as assistant stage managers; Alexandria Abramson as the lighting board operator; and Jay-Lan Halliburton as the sound board operator.

The story takes place in 1900 Russia where Vanya and his niece Sonya have spent their lives caretaking the dilapidated family estate and sending the meager revenue to support Sonya’s father, a well-known professor. When ill health causes the professor to move home with his young and beautiful wife Yelena, the family is thrown into turmoil. Each character strives for connection, despite being entangled in a web of depression and loneliness.

General admission tickets are $10. Cash or check only will be accepted at the door. Reservations are highly recommended, as performances will sell out. Reserve your seats online at http://www.iun.edu/theatre/ or by calling (219) 980-6808.

About Theatre Northwest:

Theatre Northwest, the performance company of the Indiana University Northwest Department of Performing Arts, is highly regarded as an affordable and accessible performance venue serving the communities of Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. The theatre also serves as a platform for the up-and-coming talent of the Department of Performing Arts, the only public theatre degree program in Northwest Indiana.