Hershey Felder Explores Rachmaninoff’s Legacy in New Play

Hershey Felder’s latest theatrical production, “Rachmaninoff and the Tsar,” delves into the intertwined fates of the renowned composer Sergei Rachmaninoff and Tsar Nicholas II, offering a poignant exploration of loss and nostalgia. The play, part of its world premiere season, is currently showcased at Writers Theatre in Glencoe, Illinois, and will run until September 21, 2023.

Unpacking Rachmaninoff’s Grief and Yearning

Felder, a Montreal-born artist acclaimed for his portrayals of various composers, serves as writer, actor, and pianist in this production. The narrative is enriched by the inclusion of British Italian actor Jonathan Silvestri, who portrays the last Emperor of Russia. This addition allows for a deeper exploration of the emotional complexities surrounding Rachmaninoff’s life and the impact of the Russian Revolution on his identity.

The play’s structure is uniquely engaging, intertwining Rachmaninoff’s poignant memories with live performances of his music. One significant piece featured is the slow middle movement of his Second Piano Concerto, which encapsulates the show’s reflective tone. Felder’s Rachmaninoff, who grapples with terminal illness in Beverly Hills during 1943, conjures the tsar through morphine-induced visions, sparking a dialogue about their shared histories.

A Complex Relationship Between Two Figures

The dual narratives reveal Rachmaninoff’s profound homesickness for pre-revolutionary Russia alongside the tsar’s own grief over the loss of his family. Rachmaninoff’s quotes, such as “I left behind my desire to compose: losing my country, I lost myself also,” underscore his emotional turmoil after fleeing Russia in 1918.

As Rachmaninoff struggles with feelings of anger towards Nicholas, the narrative shifts between political critique and sentimental reminiscence about their homeland. This complex relationship is made palpable through digital flashbacks of the Romanov family, designed by Stefano DeCarli, which serves to highlight the personal connections that transcend time.

Despite the emotional weight of the material, some critics note that the tone can feel disjointed. The interplay between Rachmaninoff’s nostalgia and Nicholas’s imperial legacy occasionally lacks coherence, making it challenging to fully grasp the depth of their interactions.

Musically, Felder delivers captivating performances of Rachmaninoff’s works, including the Prelude in C-sharp minor, which he humorously refers to as “it,” due to its popularity. His interpretations vary, showcasing both the power of Rachmaninoff’s leaping chords and the delicate subtleties of his melodies, all while accompanying the dialogue with live piano music.

Ultimately, “Rachmaninoff and the Tsar” serves as a reflection on identity, home, and the emotional legacies of historical figures. Audiences may find themselves moved by the heartfelt portrayals of both Rachmaninoff and Nicholas, as they navigate the pains of loss and separation. The play resonates with anyone who has experienced a longing for their homeland or grappled with familial grief.

Tickets for this thought-provoking production are priced between $35 and $95, available at writersetheatre.org. As Felder continues to illuminate the lives of iconic composers, this latest endeavor invites viewers to reflect on the lasting impact of history on personal identity.