Gorky's _Summerfolk_: A Reflection on Class and Discontent

Maxim Gorky's play _Summerfolk_, originally written in 1905, has been adapted by siblings Nina and Moses Raine for a contemporary audience at the National Theatre, directed by Robert Hastie. The narrative unfolds in a summer dacha, where a group of affluent characters engage in idle conversations, revealing their ennui and discontent. The adaptation aims to explore themes of class transition and the superficiality of the newly wealthy middle class, echoing the sentiments of Anton Chekhov's _The Cherry Orchard_.

The Guardian

The play is set against a backdrop of a decaying aristocracy, with characters such as Varvara (Sophie Rundle), who dreams of a more meaningful existence, and Yakov Shalimov (Daniel Lapaine), a writer whose vanity masks his hollowness. The staging, designed by Peter McKintosh, features a deconstructed house and a picturesque forest, symbolizing the characters' internal struggles and societal critiques. The interactions among the characters often highlight their self-absorption and the disconnection from the working class, represented by the watchmen lurking at the edges of their lavish gatherings.

The Guardian

The adaptation emphasizes the characters' existential musings and the societal changes of early 20th-century Russia. Gorky's critique of the bourgeoisie is evident as characters like the poet Kaleria (Doon Mackichan) trivialize the suffering of the lower classes, exclaiming, “What about poetry?” This moment encapsulates the disconnect between privilege and reality. The relationships depicted, particularly the unrequited love between Maria Lvovna (Justine Mitchell) and the young clerk Vlass (Alex Lawther), add layers of emotional complexity, showcasing the characters' struggles with love and societal expectations.

The Guardian

Despite its ambitious themes, the adaptation has faced criticism for its disjointed execution. Reviewers note that while the contemporary language adds humor, it often clashes with the period setting, leading to a lack of depth in character development. Some characters are portrayed as caricatures, failing to resonate with the audience on a meaningful level. The production's pacing and length have also been points of contention, with some critics suggesting that it meanders without delivering substantial insights.

National Theatre, London

The Raine siblings have expressed their intention to breathe new life into Gorky's work, aiming for a balance between humor and serious reflection on societal issues. However, the adaptation has sparked discussions about its effectiveness in conveying Gorky's original messages, with some critics arguing that it falls short of capturing the emotional intensity of the source material.

National Theatre, London

• “They pop up and are gone, like scum on a puddle. Or warts.” — Richard Trinder, Watchman

Summerfolk at the National Theatre – review

• “We, who are children of washerwomen, cooks and healthy workmen, should be different,” — Maria Lvovna, reflecting on class identity.

The Guardian

• “The mess they leave behind,” says the watchman, despairingly, looking at the litter left in the forest.” — Watchman, commenting on societal carelessness.

Summerfolk at the National Theatre – review

_Gorky's Summerfolk_ at the National Theatre serves as a poignant exploration of class dynamics and personal discontent, though its adaptation has received mixed reviews regarding its execution. The play runs until April 29, 2026, inviting audiences to reflect on the relevance of Gorky's themes in contemporary society.

National Theatre, London