Rachmaninoff And The Tsar

Hershey Felder, a masterful performer known for his solo acts that vividly bring to life the legacies of iconic composers such as George Gershwin, Frédéric Chopin, and Leonard Bernstein, now graces the stage at Writers Theatre with his latest work, "Rachmaninoff and the Tsar." This captivating performance delves into the remarkable life of Sergei Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff, widely celebrated as one of the greatest pianists and composers of the early 20th century. In "Rachmaninoff and the Tsar," Felder skillfully intertwines storytelling with music, embodying Rachmaninoff's genius through both narrative and piano, allowing audiences a glimpse into the life of the Russian composer, pianist, and conductor. In his concluding chapter of the acclaimed series of musical plays centered around renowned composers, Felder delivers a masterful performance, blending compelling dialogue and a touch of wit that draws audiences into the world of music with an engaging charm. This new musical production marks Felder's first appearance on stage opposite another artist, a departure from his solo composer plays, introducing British-Italian Jonathan Silvestri in the role of Tsar Nicholas II. Nicholas II was the last reigning Emperor of Russia, who, with his wife, Alexandra, and their children, was killed by the Bolsheviks after the October Revolution.

As the composer lies on his deathbed, facing the harsh reality of terminal melanoma, he engages in a hallucination where he is in a conversation with Tsar Nicholas II, discussing the importance of love and the power of music, which has inspired his art. Felder and Silvestri team up to perform phenomenally within this production, providing an interesting historical character reference of the life, career, and troubling relationship between Rachmaninoff and Tsar Nicholas, and how both lives were affected by the Russian Revolution. Hershey Felder's captivating exploration of Rachmaninoff's music and life unfolds like a vivid history lesson brought to life before your eyes. The multifaceted artist—playwright, actor, and pianist infuses his performance with a contagious passion for the great composers, allowing the audience to feel the depth of Rachmaninoff's genius. Every note resonates with emotion, and Felder's dedication to portraying the nuances of the composer's world transforms the stage into a living tribute to the power of music and storytelling.

 At Let's Play Theatrical Review, our mission is to illuminate the hidden gems of Chicagoland theaters, and this particular production by Felder and Silvestri is a shining historical gem. If you aren't well-acquainted with the life of Sergei Rachmaninoff, I recommend doing a little research into the character's remarkable life. Understanding his experiences will not only enrich your appreciation of the narrative but also enhance your enjoyment of the exceptional performances that bring this captivating story to life. After the performance, Felder provides an engaging question-and-answer session, inviting the audience to learn more about his artistic vision for the composer. He also tantalized us with hints of intriguing future projects that promise to elevate his musical storytelling to new heights.

⭐⭐⭐1/2 STARS

WRITERS THEATRE

Hershey Felder's

Rachmaninoff And The Tsar

Music of Sergei Rachmaninoff

Book by Hershey Felder

Directed by Trevor Hay

August 13–September 21, 2025

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