As our theatres remain closed and we're not able to offer a production this year, we thought it would be fun to create a small project for you to view at home. 

From A Distance is 10 brief scenes exploring a marriage, and how a couple grapples with different ways of responding to the pandemic. 

We kept it simple. We recorded it on Zoom, each in our separate homes, each scene improvised. Stewart Arnott and Susan Coyne play Neil and Brenda.

It was challenging to create something on Zoom. A year ago none of us had heard of Zoom, and now for many of us it is our workplace or lifeline. We tried to embrace its gifts, its limitations, and its reliance on unpredictable wifi.

It was another lesson in acceptance and surrender. 

It was also scary and challenging to give ourselves the task of exploring this relationship and story through improvisation. Stewart and Susan rose to the challenge even when we weren't sure where we were going. We had to trust that we would find our way.

I hope From A Distance captures a moment in this historic time, and on a medium that will forever be associated with this pandemic.

We are so looking forward to being back in the theatre next year. Until then, take care of yourselves and others, and enjoy this simple offering. 

Rena 

The Chekhov Collective

To watch From A Distance, click HERE.

Photo: Stewart Arnott and Susan Coyne. © 2021 Chekhov Collective.