the seagull

The scene is laid in the park on SORIN'S estate. A broad avenue
of trees leads away from the audience toward a lake which lies
lost in the depths of the park. The avenue is obstructed by a
rough stage, temporarily erected for the performance of amateur
theatricals, and which screens the lake from view. There is a
dense growth of bushes to the left and right of the stage. A few
chairs and a little table are placed in front of the stage. The
sun has just set.

MEDVIEDENKO. Why do you always wear mourning?

MASHA. I dress in black to match my life. I am unhappy.

MASHA. [Looking in the direction of the stage] The play will soon
begin.

Written by Anton Chekhov
18 JANUARY - 17 MARCH
Royal Court Theatre, London