Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike by the late Christopher Durang is now onstage at the Bristol Riverside Theatre in Bristol, PA, until October 5, 2025.

Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike is a dramatic comedy set in Bucks County, PA, at a farmhouse owned by Masha, a glamorous, but aging star of stage, screen, and television, and her two siblings Vanya and Sonia who are totally supported by her. Masha is visiting with her new young beau ideal Spike, and thereupon rests the ensuing hijinks. Written by the late, gay playwright Cristopher Durang (January 2, 1949 – April 2, 2024), much of the play was based upon his own experiences living in Bucks County,  PA.

Of course, the heavy irony implied by the title echoes the Russian masterpieces The Cherry Orchard and Uncle Vanya, among others.

The play had several productions locally, at  Bucks County Playhouse in 2014, and the Paper Mill Playhouse in 2015. Credit must go to the Bristol for this posthumous production after a long hiatus. 

This Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike had great production values. A beautiful, evocative set by Scenic Designer Jason Simms, beautiful Lighting Design by Cameron Filepas, and Sound Design by Damien Figueras. Linda B. Stockton’s Costume Design was spot on especially for character development. A local costume party had outlandish costumes from Snow White, while the drab, depressed Sonia went as a dazzling evil witch in evening dress, jewels, and tiara. Then there was Spike!

Dante Giannetta was brilliant in the role of Spike. This was no static Adonis.  Rather, he was positively electric onstage. He bounced, flounced, and commanded the stage with an alpha male presence refreshing to behold. It didn’t hurt one bit that clothing flew off his body with little effort to reveal a truly stunning body. Textiles were his body’s enemy as the eye became constantly refreshed by its beauty and vigor. This Spike was truly a great asset to the play. Bravo, Mr. Giannetta.

If you haven’t yet visited the newly refurbished Bristol Riverside Theatre, you’ve been missing an incredible venue for theatre. Special considerations have been made for the mobility challenged, with a newly-constructed ramp, hand rails at every row, and a spacious lobby. The theatre is small and intimate, providing a memorable experience.

Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike will be onstage until October 5, followed by a full season of plays. Bristol residents enjoy subsidized tickets, and theme nights such as Thirsty Thursdays when beers and snacks will be served on October 2, December 18, February 19, April 16, and June 11. For more information about tickets, and theme events, visit …

www.brtstage.org