University Players presents the enchanting comedic drama To Moscow, by Karen Sunde, for 10 performances February 6 to 15 at Essex Hall Theatre.

A tribute to the magic of theatre, the story is based on true events from the lives of theatrical legends Anton Chekhov and Konstantin Stanislavski. Their remarkable journey begins backstage on a disastrous opening night, and continues on to become one of the world’s greatest theatrical legacies.

Relationships blossom and grow and partnerships are pushed to the limits. In the end it is strength, love, artistry and dedication that prevail in this passionate tale. Accomplished director, actor and writer Liza Balkan returns to University Players to direct the play.

“This is a rich, funny, and magical ode to a brilliant writer, and the innovative director and actors who dedicated their lives to creating truth on the stage,” she says. “It is filled with the kind of roller coaster emotion, humour, jealousies, love, and complex relationships that go hand in hand with the struggle to create great art. These people and their work have become the major foundations of what we hope to do in the theatre today.”

The curtain rises on evening performances Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. On Sunday, February 8, a “talk back” discussion with the director and actors will follow the performance. Tickets can be ordered online at www.UniversityPlayers.com or by calling 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.