A strong, substantial ‘Vanya’ in Newport

Community theaters tackle Chekhov about as frequently as pigs fly, but pork is currently in the treetops outside the Newport Theatre Arts Center.

Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya,” written at the close of the 19th century, contains the usual complement of Russian dissatisfaction — unrequited love, envy, gloomy foreboding — but in this translation by Brian Friehl, it all tends to go down much easier in the Newport production.

Not that “Vanya” is a brilliantly conceived play — the crux of its conflict doesn’t surface until the second act, and it’s about a half hour too long at 2 1/2 hours. But its cast is as strong as any you’ll find this side of South Coast Repertory.

Much of the show’s success may be credited to its director, Alex Golson, now retired from mounting productions at Orange Coast College. Golson has selected a cast well suited to Chekhovian challenges, headed by an actor who used to hone his budding talents under Golson at OCC a few decades ago.

That would be Mark Coyan, superb in the title role of an outspoken member of a Russian family clinging to its decaying estate. Coyan dominates the stage by sheer force of will, shrewdly observing the various conflicts and powerfully joining them when necessary, his love for the young wife of an ailing academic becoming his Achilles heel.

His rival in this venture is the town’s alcoholic doctor (Sean Hesketh), who’s pursued in turn by the idealistic young stepdaughter of his beloved (Alexandra Burke). Both Hesketh and Burke deliver sterling portrayals as they advance their characters’ agendas.

Carla Naragon is quite convincing as the married temptress, with Rick Kopps reaching to achieve believability as her aging and infirm husband. Kopps, however, delivers a stellar cameo performance when the spotlight finally finds him.

Floyd Harden provides snatches of comic relief as a weasel of an estate hanger-on with a strange attachment to the Germans. Lisa Black offers fine balance as the housekeeper, and Tamra Talbert is suitable as the family matriarch.

The period Russian backdrops by Andrew Otero, who also created the costumes, are among the designer’s finest work in local theater. Michael Castillo’s lighting and Brian Page’s sound designs also are first rate.

“Uncle Vanya” may be a more suitable vehicle for the pros and the colleges, but it receives a strong, substantial rendering at the Newport Theatre Arts Center.

*

IF YOU GO

What: “Uncle Vanya”

Where: Newport Theatre Arts Center, 2501 Cliff Drive, Newport Beach

When: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays until April 17

Cost: $17

Information: (949) 631-0288