Opened: March 14, 2013

Book by: Christopher Durang

Original Broadway Cast: Sigourney Weaver, David Hyde Pierce, Kristine Nielsen, Billy Magnussen, Shalita Grant & Genevieve Angelsonn

Heavily influenced by the works of Chekov, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike is a great character study featuring family rivalries and fantastic performances.

Vanya (David Hyde Pierce) and Sonia (Kristine Nielsen) live alone without jobs after taking care of their now-deceased parents for many years. Their house and income are provided by their actress sister Masha (Sigourney Weaver), who returns to announce she plans to sell the home.

Pierce and Nielsen are comedic gold and play off each other brilliantly. Billy Magnussen as the dim-witted Spike has the audience laughing at his comedy, while also in awe of his body. Unfortunately, the usually stellar Weaver feels as if she’s playing a role instead of being a character.

The staging makes everything feel compact, which helps drive the drama between the siblings.

Final say: A funny and light-hearted show. ★★★★☆