The recent production of “Utopia” at the Iseman Theater, running from November 15 to November 21, 2023, marks a significant moment in contemporary theatre as it presents the first English-language adaptation of Mikhail Durnenkov‘s acclaimed play. This production, staged by the David Geffen School of Drama, dives deep into the emotional and societal repercussions of the Soviet era, all through the lens of a struggling family attempting to restore their past.
Set in modern-day Russia, “Utopia” follows the life of Lyokha, a bartender tasked with reviving his family’s once-thriving establishment. The narrative unfolds amidst the mounting pressure from his family and a wealthy benefactor whose influence looms over them. As Lyokha grapples with the challenges of reconstructing the bar to reflect its 1990s Soviet appearance, he confronts unresolved issues within his family—his father’s alcoholism, his mother’s abandonment, and his son’s drug addiction. Each of these elements forces the characters to confront their shared past, highlighting the enduring scars left by their previous lives.
Durnenkov’s work is emotionally charged and unflinching. The playwright’s portrayal of addiction is raw and intimate, effectively conveying the weight of the characters’ struggles. His commentary on the lingering effects of the Soviet regime is both incisive and relevant, making the show a timely exploration of nostalgia and its consequences.
Ambitious Staging and Standout Performances
Directed by Andreas Andreou, the production displays a grand ambition that sometimes overshadows the performances. While the show is visually compelling, there are moments where the emotional intensity feels overwhelming for the actors. Dialogue occasionally shifts from natural conversation to lengthy monologues, diluting the impact of key interactions.
Despite these fluctuations, several performances stand out. Dorottya Ilsovai shines as Nadya, Lyokha’s wife, capturing both her quiet sorrow and moments of levity, particularly when humorously mispronouncing “croquembouche.” Ameya Narkar delivers a poignant portrayal of Yura, Lyokha’s son, whose struggle with addiction resonates deeply throughout the narrative. Darius Sakui, as the enigmatic Kirill, brings a commanding presence to the stage, embodying the complexities of a character entwined with the family’s fate.
Innovative Design and Thematic Depth
One of the most striking elements of “Utopia” is the lighting design by Finn Bamber. His work elevates the production, using a range of techniques to enhance the emotional landscape of the play. From warm amber washes to harsh white lights that evoke searchlights, Bamber’s design is intentionally crafted, sculpting the atmosphere in ways that complement the narrative’s emotional arcs.
The play ultimately poses a challenging question: Can one truly rebuild the past without reckoning with its painful history? Andreou’s direction, combined with Bamber’s powerful lighting, allows Durnenkov’s urgent critique of nostalgia and authoritarianism to resonate profoundly. Although the production may experience uneven moments, its ambition and thematic depth leave a lasting impact.
“Utopia” is a bold exploration of familial bonds and the scars of history, inviting audiences into a world where the past is never truly behind and where the act of rebuilding becomes a journey fraught with challenges and revelations. This production not only showcases the talents of its cast and crew but also affirms the importance of international voices in the theatrical landscape.