The relationship between Chekov and his wife is indeed very interesting. Unfortunately the play does very little with this rich and beautiful material. Rocamora wrote a shallow and dull play, which does very little but give basic information about the main events in the lovers' lives. Those who know nothing about the subject will not be tempted to look for better sources. For those who know the play will give, I think, no pleasure: it is not interesting, it offers no insights, and in my mind its both artistic and informative failure. For real enjoyment you are advised to read the original letters, or Donald Rayfield's superb biography of Chekov.

"I Take Your Hand In Mine..." is an outstanding theatrical play inspired by the love letters of Anton Chekhov and Olga Knipper. Playwright Carol Rocamora draws upon her expertise and familiarity with the life and work of Anton Chekhov (she is an accomplished translator of his writings) to present an exceptionally well crafted and faithful-to-her-subject drama that is especially recommended to school and community theater groups, as well as all Chekhov enthusiasts.