Dreams Are Deferred in The Archway Theatre's THREE SISTERS

The Archway Theatre presents Anton Chekhov's comedy, "Three Sisters," as an intimate exploration into the lives of a Russian family in a garrison town, who slowly realize that their dreams for a better life have passed them by.

Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, July 29 through Aug. 26. Tickets are $28.

"After six years and more than 40 productions, we are finally presenting some Chekhov," said Archway producing artistic director Steven Sabel.

Chekhov's perfect expression of artistic genius chronicles the falling fortunes of the four children of a recently deceased colonel in the Russian army: sweet Irina, the youngest and most impressionable; tempestuous Masha, who is trapped in a loveless marriage; practical Olga, who has resigned herself to spinsterhood, and their brother Andrei, whose ill-advised romance and compulsive gambling wreaks havoc on the family finances, eventually forcing them out of their home.

The production is directed by Wendi Johnson, who returns to the Archway after directing last season's production of "Major Barbara."

"What I love about Chekhov most is his relevance, and the depth of his plays," said Johnson. "Open one door, and several new corridors are revealed to explore even further."

The cast features a talented group of stage actors led by Archway resident company members Jessica Barrett Denison, John Eisen, Adam David Green, Kate Hart, Jennifer Hawkins, Garrick LeWinter, Sarah Morris, Kevin James Spear, Melissa Virgo, Bree Wernicke, and Brent White. Also joining the cast are Andrew Chilcott, Kelly Cross, AaRon Porter, Marcos Ruiz, and Barry Shay.

"The Archway has an incredibly creative and talented troupe of actors," said Johnson. "Their passion for their work is astounding. They make every rehearsal joyful and inspire me as an artist."

The Archway Theatre is an award-winning theatre company focused primarily on presenting classical theatre productions. Their seasons regularly include works by Shakespeare, Greek tragedy, modern classics, and more.

"We have tackled Shaw, Wilde, Marlowe, Moliere, Sheridan, Ford, and even Machiavelli - now it's time for some incredible Chekhov," said Sabel.

The Archway Studio/Theatre is located at 10509 Burbank blvd., North Hollywood, CA. For additional information, visit www.archwayla.com or call (818)980-PLAY (7529).