National Theatre Live: Vanya

This recording documents the stage production in which Andrew Scott performs Chekhov's Uncle Vanya alone, filmed during its London run. Simon Stephens's version brings the text into present-day language and gives every character to a single actor; Scott moves from one to another on stage by shifting voice, posture and gaze. The set is a bare space closer to a rehearsal room, and the transitions are made without help from costume or make-up. The choice strangely strengthens Chekhov's real subject, people failing to actually hear one another, because all the voices are already inside one body. Sam Yates's staging and the camera's close work let the theatre recording keep the experience of being in the audience. Who it's for: readers of Chekhov and viewers who like watching theatre recordings in cinemas. Who it's not for: anyone expecting a cinematic adaptation; this is a record of a stage performance.