Watch Chekhov Comedy Shorts

The Chekhov Comedy Shorts was a production that premiered on Broadway HD in 2010. As the name suggests, it is a collection of short plays by Anton Chekhov, one of the greatest Russian playwrights of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This production features four of Chekhov’s famous one-act plays, namely, The Bear, The Evils of Tobacco, The Proposal, and The Anniversary. All of these plays are well-known for their hilarious and satirical portrayal of Russian society.

The first play in the collection is The Bear, which revolves around a debt-ridden widow named Popova. After her husband’s death, Popova locks herself up in her house in mourning and has sworn never to remarry. However, when her creditor Smirnov arrives at her door demanding payment, the two characters engage in a ridiculous and absurd argument that eventually leads to a surprisingly sweet moment.

The Evils of Tobacco is the second play in the production, which is a humorous monologue performed by a professor. In his speech, the professor delivers a lecture on the harmful effects of smoking. However, the professor seems to be just as addicted to tobacco as anyone else, and eventually, his true habits are revealed in an entertaining way.

The Proposal is the third play in the collection, which is centered around a long-standing feud between two neighbors, Chubukov and Lomov. In an attempt to reconcile the two, Chubukov suggests that his daughter Natalia and Lomov should marry. However, the two characters can’t seem to agree on anything, and their argument quickly turns into a farcical frenzy.

Lastly, The Anniversary is the fourth play in the collection which is centered around the celebration of a couple’s 35th wedding anniversary. The couple, an aged judge and his wife, bicker throughout the evening, insulting each other and their guests. It is a story that provides a unique perspective on marital life, and how it can sometimes spiral into chaos after many years of companionship.

Overall, the Chekhov Comedy Shorts is a collection of plays that perfectly capture the absurdity of Russian society during Anton’s time. With its witty humor and satirical dialogue, it serves as an excellent example of Chekhov's talent as a playwright. The four short plays provide a glimpse into the world of the author, who was both an expert at depicting the flaws of society and highlighting the beauty of human relationships. The production is a must-watch for anyone who loves comedy plays and wants to experience the wit and humor of one of the most celebrated playwrights in history.