Nikolai Ivanov, once admired and full of promise, finds himself overwhelmed by depression as those around him attempt to explain his unhappiness. Over the course of a year, conflicting assumptions, strained relationships, and missed connections expose the comic and tragic consequences of people failing to understand one another. This adaptation of Anton Chekhov's Ivanov presents the playwright's first major work in a contemporary, fast-moving form.

The production is adapted and directed by Laura Strausfeld, whose version remains faithful to Chekhov's original while emphasizing its pace and wit.

Presented by Initiative Productions, The Real Ivanov runs at The Lynn F. Angelson Theater in New York from 17 August to 19 September 2026. The creative team includes set and lighting designer Jiyoun Chang, costume designer Ella Matza, sound designer Brandon Bulls, and casting director Jack Doulin.