Photo Flash: In Rehearsal with John Hannah and More for Anya Reiss's UNCLE VANYA

The first rehearsal images were released today for a new version of Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya by multiple award-winning playwright Anya Reiss, premiering on Wednesday 8 October at St. James Theatre. Directed by Russell Bolam, Reiss's adaptation of Chekhov's masterpiece of modern theatre reignites the piece for a 21st century audience, revealing the universal difficulties of impossible love, longing and regret. Scroll down for a sneak peek!

John Hannah stars as Vanya, returning to the stage for the first time since 2008, after his role in Sky One's epic, Spartacus. Joining Hannah in the company are Amanda Boxer, Buffy Davis, Joe Dixon, Alan Francis, Amanda Hale, Rebecca Night and Jack Shepherd.

A respected professor returns to his farmland which has been managed without him for many years. He brings with him a new, beautiful, young wife. Their arrival turns the lives of the residents and his family upside down forcing everyone to re-examine their choices. Old wounds are reopened, passions are awakened and thwarted ambitions bubble to the surface, threatening the lives of everyone involved.

Jagged Fence Productions will bring Uncle Vanya to the stage as part of the ONE STAGE season running September to December at the St. James Theatre. It is supported by Stage One, the charity which supports emerging commercial theatre producers. This new version of Uncle Vanya was commissioned by Emily Dobbs on behalf of Jagged Fence Productions. Janet Bird will design, with lighting by Johanna Town, music by Isobel Waller Bridge and casting by Hayley Kaimakliotis.

Performances will play the St. James Theatre, 12 Palace St, London SW1E 5JA, Wed 8 October - 8 November 2014. Press Night: Mon 13 October 2014, 7pm. Performances: Monday - Saturday, 7.30pm; Thursday & Saturday, 2.30pm. Ticket Prices: £49.50, £39.50, £29.50, £15* (*Tickets are limited in number. Book early to avoid disappointment). Visit www.OneStageSeason.co.uk, www.stjamestheatre.co.uk, or call Box Office: 0844 264 2140 for more information.

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