The multi-award-winning comedy 'Art' is now running at Colchester's Mercury Theatre, starring Seann Walsh, Chris Harper and Aden Gillett.
Directed by Iqbal Khan, this revival of Yasmina Reza's acclaimed play offers a fresh perspective on the witty exploration of friendship, art and personal taste.
The narrative centres on Serge's purchase of an expensive all-white painting, igniting a heated debate among friends Marc and Yvan.
This seemingly simple premise serves as a catalyst for deeper discussions about the value of art in today's consumerist society, questioning whether an artwork's worth is truly tied to its market value.
The play also serves as a poignant commentary on friendship and tolerance, highlighting how relationships evolve based on our ability to accept differing perspectives.
With a set design that truly aids the narrative, and costumes working as a mirror for the characters' unique evolving personalities, from the opening scene to its ambiguous conclusion, 'Art' prompts audiences to reflect on the subjective nature of artistic appreciation and the complexities of maintaining long-term friendships.
The characters' physical and psychological distancing throughout the performance underscores their struggle to embrace each other's choices.
The performances are noteworthy. Seann Walsh shines as Yvan, showcasing his comedic talent in a role that resonates deeply.
Chris Harper adds depth to the ensemble, while Aden Gillett perfectly rounds out the trio with his extensive stage experience. Their portrayals exemplify the play's themes and enhance its emotional impact.
When Yvan says, "Nothing beautiful has ever been born out of rational argument," the audience experiences a bittersweet moment of recognition, laughing while simultaneously grasping the profound truth behind his words.
The characters deliver exceptional asides.
Iqbal Khan’s direction brings fresh insights into Reza's script, complemented by thoughtful set design and lighting that enhance the narrative.
Yvan’s monologue and how he moves about, explaining his tardiness becoming one of the most hilarious moments in the play, elicited uncontrollable laughter from the audience.
A particularly memorable sequence illustrates the characters' emotional journey as they laugh, cry, fight and ultimately attempt to reconcile their differences.
One of my favourite lines from the play is, “What are they without my faith in their potential?” This encapsulates the existential questions at the heart of 'Art'.
And 'Art' remains relevant today because it blends humour with these existential questions about identity and friendship and subjectivity and rationale.
The stark white canvas at the centre of the controversy, becomes a metaphor for the transient nature of human existence – perhaps suggesting that we are all merely moving across time and space, leaving no lasting mark, much like figures disappearing into the blank expanse of the painting.
With razor-sharp dialogue, memorable performances and the exploration of universal themes - 'Art' lives up to the promise to entertain and provoke thought, fulfilling Libby Purves' (Theatercat.com) assertion that it is indeed "a tiny masterpiece, delicately done".
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here