ART, UK Tour Review (2024)
Seann Walsh, Chris Harper, Aden Gillett in ART. Photo by Geraint Lewis
Reviewed by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Revived for its 30th anniversary, Yasmina Reza’s multi-award winning play ART explores the complexities of friendship through the lens of differing opinions about modern art. The play premiered in Paris at the Comédie des Champs-Elysées in 1994 before it was translated and opened in London’s West End two years later at the Wyndham’s Theatre.
The story itself revolves around three friends - Serge, Marc and Yvan - whose 15 year friendship becomes strained when Serge purchases an expensive, all-white painting. It spirals into a night where tempers flare and opinions are thrown at each other in an attempt to destroy their friendship as quickly as they can. ART dives into the tension between personal taste, intellectualism, and emotional vulnerability, as the characters question their connections and values. In the space of 85 minutes, you get a really interesting gaze into male relationships that leaves a lasting impact on you.
Dressed with modernistic pieces of set and clever doses of lighting from Ciaran Bagnall’s design, the simplicity enhances the story. There is a clever use of a spotlight which enables them to move in and out of the scene to add a little bit of emphasis on their characters’ thoughts.
Chris Harper plays Serge, a confident and cultured character who prides himself on his appreciation for modern art. He showcases a real conviction in his taste and intelligence which puts him at odds with his friends, which results in sensitivity to their judgements and deeper insecurities. Harper performs the contrast in his character to the other two so well that he becomes the most likeable.
Aden Gillett shines as the practical and outspoken character Marc. Deeply sceptical of modern art, particularly Serge’s expensive purchase which is the main transport for the show, generates a lot of opinions and frustration. With those laid out, we see how Gillett unearths his discomfort with change and his need for control.
Completing the cast is Yvan (played by Seann Walsh) is the most indecisive of the three friends and shows that he often keeps the peace between Serge and Marc. Walsh really fulfils the role well, there’s this tendency his character has to avoid conflict and when we start to learn of his own personal struggles he delivers some brilliant comedic timing into play.
The comedy in this production can be somewhat predictable, but the chemistry between the actors is truly impressive. Their performance is polished and well-executed, leaving you reflecting on the subjective nature of art. ART is a brilliantly crafted and stimulating piece of theatre that is touring around the UK.
ART is touring around the UK until 26 October.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
