[Chekhov]
(Entering are Irina, on Sorin's arm, Trigorin, Ilya, Medvedenko and Masha.)
ILYA: I saw her at the Fair in 1873 - she gave an extraordinary performance. And what about Pavel Chadin? I don't know of a better comedian. Do you ever hear from him?
IRINA: All that was so long ago. I have no idea where he is.
(They begin to take seats for the play.)
ILYA: There's no one like Pavel around any more. The theater's not what it used to be, Irina. Where once stood mighty oaks - today mere stumps!
DORN: Genius on stage may be more rare - but I think the general level of acting is much better today.
ILYA: I beg to differ with you. I suppose it's a matter of taste.
(Treplev comes out from behind the stage.)