It's hard to imagine that anyone who lives in St. Joseph today can relate to Russian villagers of the 19th century, but Anton Chekhov's "Uncle Vanya" indicates otherwise.

The play addresses concerns about the impact of industrialism on the environment. And like many today, the play's main characters are losing their jobs after years.

"It's amazing how relevant this play is for being written 100 years ago," says Christopher "Bogey" Blodgett, a Missouri Western State University senior who will play Uncle Vanya in the college's upcoming production of "Uncle Vanya."

Chekhov's play often is described as a story of longing and the "wasted life." Much like our current society, all of the characters question their roles and images.

"It's a strange mix of idealism and pessimism," says Alan Arrivee, the play's director and assistant professor of theatre and cinema at Missouri Western. "There's lots of hoping that things will go right and fearing that things will go wrong."

The plot of "Uncle Vanya" focuses on an esteemed old professor (played by Kellen Perry) who can no longer afford to keep his estate or his loyal workers who worked their fingers to the bone for him.

Some take it better than others. Uncle Vanya, for example, worked for the professor for 25 long years. It's a point he likes to make every time he rants. Blodgett says he likes playing Vanya for his passionate displays of emotion.

"He's an emotional roller coaster and the most active character of the show," Blodgett says. "I have to do all these ups and downs, and afterward, I just feel drained."

However, this show isn't all about worrying and complaining. It's inspiring. "Uncle Vanya" tells the story of common people who must get their feet under them and find a way to move on.

"It's very much about people having to re-invent their lives," Arrivee says.

Although the play is a drama, Arrivee says there are several laughs, and those who come to the play will surely find some similarities between its characters and their family members.

More importantly, they play will make the audience think about their own roles and their own paths.

"(Many audiences) don't want to examine their lives. They want to forget them," Arrivee says. "But this play makes you examine yourself while being entertaining."

"Uncle Vanya" runs Nov. 4 through 8. The show starts at 8 p.m. each night in Potter Hall Theater. General tickets cost $6 to $8. Western students, faculty and staff get in free with their student ID.