Join Professor of Slavic Languages and Literatures, Michael Makin and Residential College Drama Lecturer Katherine Mendeloff as they examine Chekhov's role in Russian literature and society and as transformer and innovator of Russian drama. U-M acting students will also perform several scenes from Uncle Vanya featuring costume, live music and other scenic elements, setting the stage for a lively discussion of Chekhov's classic play and the challenges set forth for actors and directors in mounting this production. This event is presented in conjunction with the University Musical Society production of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya by the Maly Drama Theater of St. Petersburg at the Power Center March 25-28. The event is also held in collaboration with the U-M Center for Russian and East European Studies, and the U-M Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures.