“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” begins Elmwood Playhouse’s 71st Season with a bang

BY GEORGINA CASAZZA

NYACK – Celebrating the beginning of their 71st season, the Elmwood Playhouse presents “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” a fun, family comedy. Written by Christopher Durang and directed by one of Elmwood’s newest leaders, Lisa Spielman, “Vanya and…” tells the story of the interesting relationship between three middle-aged siblings.

Mourning their lost hopes and dreams, Vanya (Charlie Scatamacchia) and his sister Sonia (Meg Sewell) are enjoying their morning coffee when they’re reminded that their mega-successful, movie-star sister, Masha (Robie Livingstone) is coming to visit the family home. Arriving with her young and sexy boyfriend, Spike (John Squires), the family embarks on a hysterical weekend of drama, big egos and sensitive nerves while they try and remember the important things in life.

Charlie Scatamacchia, playing the sometimes quiet and reserved Vanya, proves that this is not his first rodeo. With extensive theatre and arts background, Scatamacchia has worked in regional theatre and on tour. His wit and careful timing charm audience members, giving a true standout performance. Not to mention a long, dramatic monologue Vanya delivers, which Scatamacchia put his all into, gaining a mid-scene round of applause.

Elmwood is also debuting a new scenic designer with “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” Patrick Beckerle is the third generation of his family to volunteer with the small theatre, and recently graduated from Full Sail University with a degree is Film Production, specializing in the art department. The beautiful set of the quaint farmhouse truly helped transform audience members into the lives of these siblings, and is assured that this will be the first of many outstanding sets by the young designer.

You will not want to miss this production of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” which will run at Elmwood Playhouse through September 29. Following this production, the theatre will present “She Loves Me,” considered to be the most charming musical ever written.

Elmwood Playhouse would also like to reach out to any potential actors in the area. Later in the season they will be presenting the engaging drama “Disgraced,” a show about race, religion and freedom of speech. The theatre is looking for actors of South Asian or Middle Eastern descent to play leading roles. Character breakdowns include:

Amir: (Male, early 30s to early 40s) Pakistani American of Middle Eastern or South Asian descent; speaks with a perfect American accent. Abe: (Male, late teens to early 20s) Pakistani American of Middle Eastern or South Asian descent. Nephew to Amir. Auditions for these roles will be October 23 at 7 p.m., October 29 at 7 p.m. and October 30 at 7 p.m.

For tickets or more information on how to become a part of the Elmwood Playhouse, visit elmwoodplayhouse.com.
CAST AND CREW OF “VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE:” Cassandra, Tracey McCallister; Nina, Emma Miller; Lighting Design, Mike Gnazzo; Costume Design, Janet Fenton; Producer, Ayn Lauren; Production Stage Manager, Allison Schneider; Prop Design, Jennie Marino.

  Christopher Durang, elmwood playhouse, Lisa Spielman, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike